HC Deb 10 November 1927 vol 210 cc344-5
29. Mr. SNELL

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that for some time the Woolwich Board of Guardians undertook certain work, such as painting and decorating, by direct labour; that this work resulted in a considerable saving on the estimated cost of the board's architects; that the guardians were, in addition, enabled to relieve the rates by taking many men off the relief lists; and will he state why he has prohibited the guardians from continuing this work?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

I am aware that the guardians have undertaken work of the nature described by direct labour and that it is claimed that there has been a saving on their architect's estimate. In order to ascertain whether, in fact, economy has been, and is being secured by this method, it seems to me proper that the guardians should go to open tender instead of relying on architects' estimates. But, of course, it is open to the guardians to put in their own estimate of the cost by direct labour.

Captain GARRO-JONES

Has the right hon. Gentleman received any protest from the painters' trade union about the employment of these men, who are not painters by trade?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

I must have notice of that question.

Mr. PALING

In the event of the authorities submitting this work to open tender and the lowest tender is in the opinion of the authority too high, will they be refused permission to do the work by direct labour?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

Not on the ground that it is direct labour.