§ Sir JOHN SPEARasked what steps have been taken to acquaint men in His Majesty's dockyards of the reply to their petitions as recently given by the Admiralty?
§ Mr. McKENNAThe replies to the workmen's petitions were issued on 18th July, and instructions were given that the decisions were to be communicated to the workmen and others concerned by the posting of copies of the statements in the workshops and at other places where notices are exhibited.
§ Sir CLEMENT KINLOCH - COOKEasked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether the Board of Trade Returns place Devonport and Plymouth next to London in the matter of cost of living, rent, etc.; and whether, in view of the recent rise in the minimum wage paid at Deptford, he will consider the advisability of raising the minimum wage paid at Devonport dockyard for work similar to that done at Deptford, so that the minimum wage in the two districts may be placed more on an equality than is the case in the present circumstances?
§ Mr. McKENNAThe reply to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. The hon. Member may be assured that 1539 the Admiralty have constantly in view all the conditions of labour at the ports in order that their intention to act as good employers may be strictly carried out.