HC Deb 04 May 1911 vol 25 cc594-5
Mr. TYSON WILSON

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty if he is aware that a builder named Mr. G. Davis, of South- sea, who has a sub-contract under the firm of Morrison and Mason for the carpenters' and joiners' work at the pumping-station in course of erection at Portsmouth dockyard, is not paying overtime rate to his workmen for overtime worked during the evenings and on Saturday afternoons; and whether he will at once take steps to compel the observance of the Fair-Wages Clause by this sub-contractor?

Mr. McKENNA

Mr. G. Davis, of South-sea, is executing the carpenters' and joiners' work of the pumping-house for Messrs. Morrison and Mason, the contractors for the new lock at Portsmouth. I am given to understand that the actual re-'quest for overtime to be worked did not emanate from the employer, and therefore overtime rate is not being paid. The men have expressed themselves as being quite satisfied with the arrangement.

Mr. TYSON WILSON

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that two men who objected to work overtime were discharged for refusing?

Mr. McKENNA

No, Sir; but I understand the request for overtime came from the men.

Mr. TYSON WILSON

Will the right hon. Gentleman make inquiry?

Mr. McKENNA

Certainly.