HC Deb 02 June 1921 vol 142 cc1204-5
2. Mr. N. MACLEAN

asked the Minister of Pensions whether Bellahouston Hospital is being repainted and redecorated, and that ex-service men are being used to do this work at rates of pay considerably below the standard trade union rate; whether he has received any protest from the Scottish Painters' Society, who allege they have a large number of ex-service men who are members of their society unemployed at present, and who could be put on this work if the standard rates were paid; and whether he is prepared to give instructions to Colonel Henchely, or the responsible officer, that work done for Government Departments must be paid at trade union rates?

Mr. MACPHERSON

The hon. Member is, I think, misinformed. The hospital is not being repainted and redecorated. During the process of spring cleaning certain wards and out-buildings have been cleaned and lime-washed by the hospital staff, all ex-service men in the employ and pay of the Ministry. The work does not require skilled labour, and I have not received any protest from the Scottish Painters' Society, but I understand that the position has been explained to a representative of that body.

Mr. MACLEAN

Can the right hon. Gentleman give the House the reply of the representative of the painters' society to the statement made in explanation by those in charge of the hospital? The facts I have put down on the Paper were sent to me by this particular society?

Mr. MACPHERSON

Very likely, and I am glad to be in a position to correct the information given to the hon. Member. The fact is, as stated, that all the men employed are ex-service men.

Mr. MACLEAN

The point which I wish to bring before the right hon. Gentleman is this: are there individuals doing work which is practically the work of the painters' society, are they being paid painters' society rates or are they being paid under those rates?

Mr. MACPHERSON

I am not quite sure about that. I am perfectly certain they are working to the satisfaction of themselves and of the Ministry. I have made every endeavour to employ only ex-service men and I shall make inquiry into the other matter raised by the hon. Member.