§ Mr. ARTHUR HENDERSONasked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he is aware that four engineering mechanics in the new factory at Portsmouth are rated at 34s. 6d. per week, although all other engineering mechanics, Devonport included, 1140 are rated at 36s.; and whether he will favourably consider the raising of these four men to the level of the others?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAThe answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative, except that the 34s. 6d. rate is not confined to the Portsmouth Factory. It is also in operation at Devonport. It should be noted that the men receiving 34s. 6d. are on the established list, their rate corresponding with the standard rate of 36s. paid to hired men. It is not proposed to take any special steps to advance the wages of the men in question.