HC Deb 21 May 1914 vol 62 cc2136-7
63. Mr. J. WARD

asked the Secretary of State for War whether his attention has been called to a strike of navvies and labourers employed upon Redford barracks, Edinburgh; and, if so, can he give the cause of the same; and what action ho proposes to take to bring the dispute to a termination?

Mr. H. BAKER

Yes, Sir. It appears that there is a disagreement between the association of employers and workmen as to the payment of car fares. The payment docs not fall within the Fair-Wages Clause, and I can only suggest that the parties should refer the matter to an arbitrator.

Mr. J. WARD

Is it not the fact that the tram money to and from Edinburgh has been conceded by the contractors to all the higher paid workmen, and does not the hon. Gentleman think that the lower paid workmen are entitled to the first consideration in a matter of this kind?

Mr. H. BAKER

That is a matter for agreement between the employers and the workmen.

Mr. J. WARD

Will the hon. Gentleman suggest to the employers that this matter should be sent to arbitration?

Mr. H. BAKER

I will certainly take any action that will promote a speedy settlement.