§ Lord CHARLES BERESFORDasked whether men employed at minimum wage on naval work at Deptford and the West Indian Dock have had their wages increased 1s. a day from 1st April, 1911; if so, whether the First Lord of the Admiralty will state the rate of wage these men are now receiving; and whether he is aware that the minimum wage at Portsmouth for men doing similar work is 21s. a week?
§ Mr. McKENNAThe minimum wage in the London establishments was increased on the 1st April last from 23s. to 24s. a week. The minimum wage at Portsmouth is as stated by the Noble Lord.
§ Lord C. BERESFORDHas the minimum wage been increased or not?
§ Mr. McKENNAThe question of the minimum wage depends on various things, among them the cost of living, which in and around London is higher than elsewhere.