HC Deb 22 July 1914 vol 65 cc423-4
18. Mr. F. HALL (Dulwich)

asked the Under-Secretary of State for India whether ninety labourers employed in the India Store Depot at 25s. 6d. per week receive only public holidays; whether the twenty-four men employed on similar work at higher wages, but less than 30s. a week, receive from three to six days' annual leave according to wages paid; and, if so, whether he will take steps to grant an annual holiday with full pay to the ninety men who receive only 25s. 6d. per week?

Mr. ROBERTS

The facts are substantially as stated in the first two parts of the question. The Secretary of State understands that the practice of the India Office in this respect is in accordance with that of other similar public offices, but he will inquire.

Mr. HALL

Will the hon. Gentleman consider whether, under the circumstances, it is possible to grant these men, at all events, at least three or six days' holiday during the year, so that they shall not be handicapped by obtaining such low rates of pay?

Mr. ROBERTS

I do not think there is any justification for saying that they obtain low rates of pay.

Mr. HALL

Does the hon. Gentleman consider that 25s. 6d. per week for these men under present conditions is an extravagant rate of pay?

Mr. ROBERTS

It is the minimum rate of pay laid down by the Committee which investigated the matter.