§ 23. Mr. OSWALD LEWISasked the Secretary of State for War the present rate of wages, including both the basic rate and the bonus, paid to barrack labourers; the number of hours worked per week for this wage; whether overtime has ever to be worked in addition; and, if so, the rates of pay for such overtime?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for WAR (Mr. T. Shaw)The basic rates of wages for barrack labourers vary according to the stations from 29s. in London to 24s. in certain provincial centres, which at the present cost-of-living figure of 55 per cent. will carry a bonus of 16s. and 13s. 3d. respectively. These wages cover all time worked and overtime pay is not admissible since the duties of barrack labourers do not permit of a regular timetable of working hours. It is understood that the average number of hours normally worked throughout the year is about 48 a week.
§ Mr. LEWISIs the right hon. Gentleman satisfied as to the fairness of these conditions; and, if not, what does he propose to do about it?
§ Mr. SHAWYes, Sir, I am satisfied that these rates are as good as the rates paid by any employers for similar work.