§ 33. Mr. KIRKWOODasked the Under-Secretary of State for India whether he is now aware that the Indian State railways have placed a large order for 27 locomotives with Swiss engineering firms; and whether in this contract any provision is made for the due observance of a fair wages and fair conditions of labour clause?
§ Earl WINTERTONI am aware that the High Commissioner for India has placed a large order for locomotives for Indian State railways with a Swiss firm. The contract contains the fair wages clause in the form generally used for Government contracts.
§ Mr. KIRKWOODIs the Under-Secretary not aware of the fact that what I have stated in this House is true, and that the Indian State railways have placed an order for 27 locomotives with a Swiss firm? Is the right hon. Gentleman prepared to raise this matter in the proper quarter in view of the fact that the foreign firms are under-cutting our British engineers? I have been an engineer myself, and I understand the case—[HON. MEMBERS: "Order, order!" and "Name!"] You can name me if you like.
§ Mr. SPEAKERThe hon. Member must understand that this hour is devoted to Questions and not to speeches.