HC Deb 12 February 1914 vol 58 cc313-4
21. Mr. TYSON WILSON

asked the hon. Member for St. George's-in-the-East, as representing the First Commissioner of Works, whether contract work on Gov- ernment buildings is being held up on account of the present lock-out in the London building trade; whether the Office of Works has been consulted in the matter; and whether consent has been given to this delay?

Mr. WEDGWOOD BENN

Work on lump sum contracts between the Board and members of the London Master Builders' Association is suspended. Necessary work of maintenance in public buildings is being carried on.

Mr. TYSON WILSON

In view of the conditions which the employers are seeking to impose upon their workmen, will the right hon. Gentleman take the contracts out of their hands?

Mr. WEDGWOOD BENN

I do not think that I can take any action with reference to the contracts.

22. Mr. CHARLES DUNCAN

asked whether at the new Home Office, being erected under contract by Messrs. Holloway Brothers, young men are being employed from Borstal Prison, and that these young men have to report themselves to the police; and, if so, whether the Office of Works have been consulted and have given their consent to this innovation?

Mr. WEDGWOOD BENN

I understand that three young men who are under the care of the Borstal Association, which befriends and supervises lads discharged on probation from the Borstal Institution, are employed by Messrs. Holloway on the new Government building. They do not report to the police, and have been employed there since October or November.

Mr. DUNCAN

Is the hon. Member aware that there is a dispute pending in connection with this particular contract?

Mr. WEDGWOOD BENN

No. Beyond the fact that there is a dispute in the building trade I do not know of any dispute.

Mr. DUNCAN

Does the hon. Member think it a proper thing that these young men should be placed on a building of this description when there is a dispute between the workmen and their employers?

Mr. WEDGWOOD BENN

My hon. Friend is mistaken if he supposes that these young men are taking the place of men who are either locked out or on strike. That is not the case at all.