HC Deb 01 December 1925 vol 188 c2046
79. Mr. DENNISON

asked the Secretary of State for Air if he is aware that Messrs. Nortons, Tividale, Staffs, are not paying the recognised standard rates of wages and general conditions of employment to the workpeople engaged on the erection of an aerodrome for the Ministry at Horncastle; will he state if the terms of contract contained the usual Fair Wages Clause; and, if so, will he take steps to see that the Clause is complied with?

Sir S. HOARE

On the assumption that the hon. Member is referring to Horn-church (not Horncastle) Aerodrome, representations were made to the Air Ministry to the effect stated in the first part of the question. The answer to the second part is in the affirmative. As regards the last part, after making inquiries, the Department suggested that the point in dispute would be best settled through the internal machinery of the industry, that is, between the union and the employers' association. If it cannot be so settled, the Air Ministry will take steps to ascertain the proper rate of wages with a view to ensuring the observance of the Fair Wages Clause.

Mr. DENNISON

To avoid a stoppage of work, will the Minister recommend to this firm that they should go to arbitration, seeing they do not belong to any employers' association?

Sir S. HOARE

I think the best procedure would be that which I have indicated in my answer. We have tried it in other cases and it has answered. If it does not answer, then I will consult with the hon. Gentleman opposite as to what the next best step would be.