HC Deb 08 November 1937 vol 328 cc1408-9
53. Mr. Anderson

asked the Postmaster-General the wage rates of men engaged by the contractors working on the underground telephone lines in the districts from Millom to Bartle, Cumberland; and whether the rates paid are in accordance with the Fair Wages Clause approved by this House?

Major Tryon

I am informed that the rates paid to navvies or labourers vary from 1s. to 1s. 0½d. per hour, and that on that basis the terms of the Fair Wages Clause are complied with.

Mr. Anderson

If the Fair Wages Clause is being applied, is it not the case that men on these jobs are working 53 hours and are not getting any additional rate of pay when they work over the 48 hours; and will he inquire into that aspect of the question?

Major Tryon

That point is not raised in the original question, but if the hon. Member will communicate with me I shall be most happy to go into it.