§ 39. Mr. COMYNS-CARRasked the Minister of Labour whether he can state for plasterers, carpenters and joiners, slaters, and bricklayers, respectively, in the city of New York, what is the trade union rate of wages; whether such men are commonly employed on time or piece rates alone, or with any system of bonus what are the terms applicable in each case; what is the usual output per hour; what are the usual hours worked in a week; whether overtime is permitted and commonly worked; if so, at what rates; whether there is any and how much un- 2114 employment; what are the average total weekly earnings; and, if he is not in possession of this information, whether he will take steps to obtain it?
§ Mr. SHAWThe information in my possession at present shows that the hourly rates of wages current in New York City in November last were I dollar 50 cents. for bricklayers and plasterers and 1 dollar 12½ cents. for carpenters and joiners and slaters. A subsequent report of 24th March states that the average base pay in New York City was then 10½ dollars per day, and that bricklayers were receiving bonuses of I dollar and 2 dollars above the agreed rate of 12 dollars per day on most work, and that a similar bonus was being paid to plasterers on many buildings The latest reports indicate a high level of activity in the building trades in New York City, practically all operatives being in employment. The large majority of building operatives in the United States have a 44-hour working week. I am endeavouring to obtain information on the other points not covered in this reply, and will communicate it to the hon. Member when received.
§ Sir VANSITTART BOWATERAre the bricklayers over there limited as to the number of bricks which they can lay per day?