§ Mr. BARNESasked the First Lord of the Admiralty, if he is aware that the current rates of wages for young journeymen and the current rates for overtime are not being paid at the Gourock Torpedo Factory; and if he will give instructions 8 for compliance in future with the fair-wages conditions?
§ Mr. McKENNAAll men who are fully qualified mechanics are paid full rates. A limited number of young men qualifying for the special work of the torpedo factory are paid lower rates according to their ability. It has already been approved that the current rates for overtime shall be paid to the men of the torpedo factory for all time worked beyond fifty-four hours per week.
§ Mr. BARNESIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that these young men are paid full rate by other firms in the district, and is there any valid reason why the Government should not pay a similar rate?
§ .Mr. McKENNAI have inquired, and I understand the facts are not so. These young men who are being taught are not paid any where the full rate of wages. The moment they qualify they are paid the full rates.