§ 77. Mr. HUNTasked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he is aware that a new aerodrome, to be erected at Hoo by Messrs. Vickers and Company, has been wholly imported from the Continent, including glass, nails, and putty, the whole having been brought over in two vessels; can he say whether this aerodrome forms part of a Government contract given to the firm named; and, if so, whether any clause has been inserted in such contract giving preference to British labour or stipulating that the wages paid and hours of labour shall conform to the trade union 1270 regulations observed by British competing firms?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the ADMIRALTY (Dr. Macnamara)The source of materials for the airship shed in question is a matter for the contractors, subject to Admiralty tests as to fitness. So far as I am aware, Messrs. Vickers are employing none but British labour in the erection of the shed. The Fair-Wages Clause has been embodied in the contract with the firm, who will be required to observe its conditions so far as any work executed in this country is concerned.
§ Mr. HUNTWhat is the use of having a Fair-Wages Clause in this country if the Government buy goods made abroad under unfair wages conditions?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAThe Fair-Wages Clause runs in this country. In this case it is not a question so much of money as of time and experience.
§ Mr. HUNTIs it not also a question of wages? If wages abroad are less than here, would not that have an effect on our own workpeople?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAI do not know whether I quite understand the hon. Gentleman; does he say that in protected countries wages are lower?
§ Mr. HUNTYes; but if the wages are lower abroad, what is the good of having the Fair-Wages Clause here? What is the good of it if the Government buy from lower-waged people abroad—that is the question?