HC Deb 25 November 1912 vol 44 cc819-20
86. Mr. BARNES

asked the Secretary to the Admiralty if Messrs. Dixon Brothers and Hutchison, of Woolston, are at present executing any Admiralty contracts; if he will make inquiry into the wages and conditions of employment; and say whether or not they are consistent with the Fair-Wages Clause of 1909?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the ADMIRALTY (Dr. Macnamara)

Messrs. Dixon Brothers and Hutchison are constructing engines for motor boats for His Majesty's Navy as sub-contractors. The usual Fair-Wages conditions are included in the contracts with the main contractors, who are required to ensure compliance with the conditions by their subcontractors. I have received a complaint of alleged infraction into which I am inquiring.

87. Mr. BARNES

asked the Secretary to the Admiralty if he will have inquiry made into the wages paid to fitters, turners, and machinists in the machine and fitting shops of Messrs. Gwynnes, of Hammersmith, Admiralty contractors; and if he will say whether or not such wages are those paid to fitters, turners, and machinists by organised employers or good employers in London as provided for by the Fair-Wages Clause of February, 1909?

Sir W. BULL

Is it not the fact that this firm has always paid trade union rates according to the inquiry the Admiralty made protecting this firm against attacks of hon. Members?

Dr. MACNAMARA

Part at any rate of my answer answers the supplemental question. As my hon. Friend is aware, in consequence of complaints received last year, a detailed investigation was made into the wages paid by this firm. As a result, it appeared that, so far as men employed on Admiralty work were concerned, the firm was complying with the requirements of the old Fair-Wages Clause—under which, at that time, Admiralty work was being executed. All recent contracts have been made under the new Fair-Wages Clause. So far I have received no complaint. If my hon. Friend can give me definite particulars as to any infraction of that Clause, I will have the matter at once investigated.

Mr. BARNES

I will give particulars.