HC Deb 11 May 1916 vol 82 c921
94. Mr. T. WILSON

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office if he is aware that Messrs. Blake and Company, of Rodney Street, Liverpool, who have secured a contract for building aeroplane sheds, are only paying the men employed on the work 9¾d. per hour, the district rate being 11d. per hour; that the men are working a fifty-three hour week, while the working week agreed to by the employers and workmen is 46½ and whether he will compel this firm to pay the standard rate or cancel the contract?

Mr. FORSTER

There is no record of this firm having any contract under the War Department for building aeroplane sheds. If the hon. Member can give particulars of the place, and amount of the contract, it might assist in further inquiry, but it is thought that there is some mistake.

Mr. T. WILSON

Has not this firm a contract for building hangars in sections so that they can be erected in any part of the country?

Mr. FORSTER

I am informed that there is no record of any contract at all.