§ Mr. CHARLES DUNCAN (for Mr. George Roberts)asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he is aware that the wages of rivetters, platers, and iron-caulkers in His Majesty's dockyards range from 24s. to 28s. per week, whereas the minimum rates prevailing in private yards range from 33s. 9d. to 40s.; and whether he will cause inquiry to be made into the matter with a view to bringing the wages of these men more in harmony with the spirit of the Fair Wages Resolution?
§ The FIRST LORD of the ADMIRALTY (Mr. McKenna)In His Majesty's dockyards there are no mechanics classed as rivetters, platers, or iron-caulkers. The scale of wages in His Majesty's dockyards alluded to in the question is that of skilled labourers, and ranges from 22s. to 28s. per week. This scale is now under the consideration of the Board. Where skill is concerned in the operation of plating, shipwrights are employed in His Majesty's dockyards.