§ 44. Mr. SNELLasked the Minister of Health whether he has received from the council of the metropolitan borough of Woolwich a request for information as to whether the council has a discretionary power to vary the wages paid to workmen employed on roads and sewers on its housing scheme at Eltham up to 10 per cent. above the trade union rates; and whether the council has such a discretionary power?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINYes, Sir. As I have informed the borough council, it is for the council to decide what rates of wages shall be paid by them, subject to the conditions laid down in the law. My jurisdiction in the matter is restricted to deciding on its merits any appeal which may be made to me against an allowance or disallowance by the district auditor.
§ how many are in course of erection; and how many have been sanctioned in Halesowen, including Cradley and Hill and Cokemore?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINAs the answer involves a tabular statement, I will, with the hon. Member's permission, circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.
§ Following is the statement: