Mr. T. F. RICHARDSasked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he is aware that Good's Shipbuilding and Engineering Company, Greenock, Government contractors, are violating the Fair Wage Clause by paying the labourers in their employ 4d. per hour instead of the customary rate of 4½d.; and whether he will take steps to see that the Fair Wage Clause is complied with?
§ Mr. McKENNAThe matter raised in the first pant of the question has not been previously brought to the notice of the Admiralty, but if the necessary details with regard to the particular Government contract, etc., involved are furnished, the necessary inquiries will be made with a view to ensure compliance with the Fair Wages Clause in Government contracts.
Mr. T. F. RICHARDSThis question was put down a week ago, and the right hon. Gentleman promised he would make inquiries. I understand he has not yet commenced to make inquiries.
§ Mr. McKENNAI think my hon. Friend is in error. I have not seen a question with regard to Good's Shipbuilding and Engineering before.
Mr. T. F. RICHARDSMay I make a correction in reference to this question? The word "Good's" has been substituted for "Scott's" in the name of the firm referred to.