HC Deb 26 June 1913 vol 54 cc1206-7
44. Mr. O'GRADY

asked the Postmaster-General whether he is aware that the firm of Samuel Butler and Company, Albion Works, Stanningley, near Leeds, only pays the builders' labourers employed in the erection of the new telephone exchange, Basinghall Street, Leeds, 5d. per hour, while the local Conciliation Board decision is (such decision being rendered 1st May, 1913), that the wages for such labour shall be 7d. per hour; and whether inquiries will be made into the case and, if the facts are as stated, steps will be taken to compel the firm in question to pay the correct rate and any back moneys that would be owing the builders' labourers employed on the building since the commencement?

Mr. WEDGWOOD BENN

The First Commissioner has received no complaints as to the rate of wages being paid to builders' labourers employed on the Leeds Telephone Exchange, but will cause inquiry to be made into the case. If the facts are as stated by the hon. Member, the First Commissioner will take the necessary steps to secure compliance with the Fair-Wages Clauses of the contract.