§ 65. Mr. WILKIEasked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether, in connection with the erection of huts at Sutton Veney, a strike against the wages paid took place among the workmen employed, and a number of Engineers were lent to the contractor to take the place of the workmen; if so, will he state under what conditions these Engineers were lent; whether they received any wages; if so, the amount; and whether there was any alteration made in the contract price?
Mr. BAKERSome difficulty did occur, and, in order that the completion of the huts might not be delayed skilled men among the troops had to be employed temporarily. They received the extra pay provided for such employment by the Royal Warrant for Pay. The matter has now been adjusted by a slight increase of pay. The work was not being done by contract, and there was consequently no question of alteration in the contract price.