§ 53. Mr. N. MACLEANasked the Minister of Transport whether the Caledonian Canal is under the control of his Department; whether he has 1942 refused application of the local representatives of the Workers' Union for consideration of increases in wages, overtime rates, an eight-hours day, and weekly payments; if he can state what is being done in the matter; whether the hours at present worked range from ten to fifteen hours a day, without any-weekly half-holiday; and whether his Department is prepared to recognise the officials of the union in matters affecting working conditions and wages?
§ Sir E. GEDDESThe powers and duties of the Commissioners of the Caledonian Canal have not yet been transferred to the Ministry of Transport, but, in anticipation that this transfer will shortly take place, inquiries are being made with regard to the conditions of employment of the canal staff. I have no information as to the extent to which the particular union referred to represents the men concerned.