§ Mr. JOHN WARDasked whether it was proposed to shortly ask for tenders for the contemplated dry dock at Portsmouth; and, if so, whether the contractors will be asked to pay the minimum rate of 6d. per hour, as agreed to between the local contractors and the workmen's trade unions?
§ Mr. McKENNAIt was not possible to invite tenders for the dry dock at Portsmouth, and terms for its execution have been arranged with the contractors for the new lock on the general basis of their existing contract. The rates of wages must therefore be governed by the existing contract; but such work as the Admiralty find to be of a nature that entitles the men to the 6d. an hour rate, will be paid for at that rate, as was arranged under the existing contract after investigation with my hon. friend's assistance last year.