§ 18. Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKEasked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether chargemen resident in Hong Kong do not participate in the increases of wages that from time to time are granted to chargemen in the home yards; that the Government at Hong Kong have authorised an increase of 15 per cent, in prices on all imported foodstuffs over and above the rise that came into force at the outbreak of war; and whether, in view of these facts and the circumstances now prevailing, he can see his way to grant some increase in the rates of chargemen's pay both as regards allowances and wages?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAThe Board of Admiralty are fully aware of the arrangements under which the emoluments of the chargemen at Hong Kong are determined, and that whilst these employés are serving at the station they are paid at special rates in dollars in accordance with the terms of their agreements. The question whether the, circumstances warrant any increase in the emoluments for these employés is now receiving attention, but no undertaking can be given as to the nature of the decision which will be arrived at.
§ Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKEDoes not the right hon. Gentleman think that the same privileges should be given to the chargemen at Hong Kong as are given to the men at home?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAWith regard to the Hong Kong chargeman he gets pay at the present time at the rate of £5 16s. a week.