§ Mr. HOUSTONasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware of the grievances of the outdoor and transmission staff of the mercantile marine offices in being called upon by the Board to work on Sundays and overtime without extra pay; whether he is aware that during the course of a year many thousands of pounds of seamen's wages pass through the hands of these men; that in some instances the wages paid to these men are only 24s. per week, and in the majority of cases not more than 30s. per week; whether he can see his way to pay them for Sunday work and overtime or, alternately, increase their wages; and whether, out of the balance remaining out of the light dues imposed upon shipowners, a portion of which is not expended on lighting our coasts, he will pay increased wages to these men?
Mr. BUXTONThe question of the wages and Sunday duty of the outdoor and transmission staff of the mercantile marine offices is already receiving my careful consideration. The wages of this staff, however, are borne on the votes for the Civil Services, and no portion can legally be paid out of the General Lighthouse Fund.