HC Deb 17 July 1929 vol 230 cc438-9
86. Mr. HOPKIN

asked the First Commissioner of Works the number of men engaged as Custodians of Ancient Monu- ments in Wales, their hours and conditions of employment, and the wages paid to these men?

The FIRST COMMISSIONER of WORKS (Mr. Lansbury)

As the answer involves a number of details, perhaps the hon. Member will allow me to circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Following is the answer:

There are 12 men who are whole-time Custodians of Ancient Monuments and Historic Buildings in Wales and Monmouth, including one employed for the summer season only. Their hours of duty vary with the times during which the buildings are open to the public. They are employed under a weekly agreement and are eligible for a gratuity on termination of service if the provisions of Section (4) of the Superannuation Act, 1887, are fulfilled; they are provided with uniform, but are not granted annual or sick leave with pay. The wages, which vary with the amount of work and responsibility involved, range from 17s. to 68s. Three men receive free residence as part of their emoluments. In addition, there are a number of cases, such as dolmens and standing stones in remote localities, where a nominal sum of a few pounds per annum is paid for cutting grass and generally keeping the monuments tidy.