§ 39. Mr. C. DUNCANasked the Secretary to the Admiralty whether an advance has recently been conceded to the hammermen under the constructive manager at Chatham Dockyard; and, if so, can he state why this advance is not added when the men are engaged on piecework; and whether he is aware that a similar advance recently conceded to the blacksmiths has been added to the time rate, on which the men's piece-work rates are based?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the ADMIRALTY (Dr. Macnamara)Yes, Sir; and pending a revision of the piece-work rates in consequence, the amount of the advance is added to the hammermen's share of the piece-work earnings. Some advances in wages have recently been granted to the blacksmiths without altering the scale, and, in accordance with the normal rule, the blacksmith's share of the piece-work earnings is assessed on the higher rates.