Mr. TYSON WILSONasked the First Lord of the Admiralty if he is aware that the following firms who are executing contracts for the Admiralty at their works in Sheffield do not pay the standard rate of wage to the joiners and other workmen employed by them, viz.: John Brown and Company, Cammell, Laird, and Company, and Vickers, Sons, and Maxim; whether, with the object of enforcing the conditions contained in the Fair Wages Clause, he will make inquiry into the matter; and whether, when doing so, he will consult the representatives of the men as well as the representatives of the firms?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAThe reply to the first part of the question is in the negative; to the second part in the affirmative if particulars of any alleged infringement are lodged with the Department in the usual manner; to the third part, the reply is in the affirmative dependent on any particulars that may be lodged showing that there appears to be a reasonable case for inquiry.
§ Mr. TUDOR WALTERSMay I ask whether he has received any representations from local trade unions upon these rates of wages; and, secondly, if facts are put before him showing that the standard rate of wages is not paid on Government contracts will he order an inquiry to be made?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAI cannot say with regard to the first part of the question, but with regard to the second, if the hon. Member will give me detailed particulars certainly I will inquire.