§ Mr. THOMAS RICHARDSONasked the President of the Board of Trade, whether he is aware that the contractor for the adapting and re-fitting of premises in Whitehaven for a Labour Exchange does not pay the recognisel rate of wages to his joiners and does not abide by the agreed rules of the trade; and whether he will make inquiry into the matter with a view to securing compliance with the fair wages clause?
§ Mr. WEDGWOOD BENNThe First Commissioner has no reason to believe that the contractor engaged on the work at the Whitehaven Labour Exchange is not paying the recognised rates of wages to joiners, but immediate inquiries will be made. It is understood, however, that there is a general demand in the town for an increase in' the rates hitherto paid.