26. Mr. TYSON WILSONasked the First Commissioner of Works whether all workmen, established or not established, employed in Government Departments under his control were paid their wages for the compulsory holiday they had on the 19th instant; and, if not, will he give instructions that all these workmen be treated alike?
§ The FIRST COMMISSIONER of WORKS (Sir Alfred Mond)Workmen in the direct employment of my Department were paid for the 19th instant. Those engaged through contractors were paid or not paid in accordance with the practice in the particular trade concerned.
Mr. WILSONIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that where men have been employed by contractors but are to all intents 2260 and purposes in the employment of the Government, and that if the Government changes the contractors the men are retained whoever the contractor may be?
§ Sir A. MONDI am aware of all the circumstances. These men are employed by the contractors, and it is very difficult to treat them as if they wore directly employed by the Government. They are not I have considered this case, and it is under my consideration again now. The question does not only affect my Department, but other Departments.
§ Sir A. MONDThey are paid by the contractors. The hon. Member is mistaken. The wages are not paid by the Government.
§ Captain W. BENNWill the right hon. Gentleman endeavour to see that all men who are employed by the Government, directly or indirectly, shall receive a day's wage for the Peace celebrations?
§ Sir A. MONDIt is not a question for my Department to settle. I am bringing the matter forward again.
§ Mr. HOLMESIs it not a fact that the contractors have received the full cost of the work, including wages and raw material, with commission, and, therefore, in effect the Government are paying the wages?
§ Sir A. MONDThe Government do not pay the wages. The wages are paid by the contractors.