HC Deb 11 July 1938 vol 338 cc896-7
23. Mr. A. Henderson

asked the Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department whether he is aware that the work on the United Kingdom Government pavilion, now being erected in Toronto, Canada, in connection with the forthcoming Canadian National Exhibition, is being carried out under working conditions which contravene the practice prevailing in Canada in connection with the placing of Federal and Provincial Government contracts; and whether he will take action to ensure that such work shall be carried out in accordance with such Canadian practice?

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Trade (Mr. Cross)

I have been asked to reply. My right hon. Friend had already taken steps to ensure that in the performance of the contract for the work to which the hon. Gentleman refers the practice followed in the case of contracts placed by the Federal and Provincial Governments in Canada should be followed.

Mr. Henderson

Is the hon. Member aware that the Toronto trade union movement are alleging that the Trade Commissioner has not followed the usual practice? If I send him the information I have received, will he inquire from the Trade Commissioner on the matter?

Mr. Cross

My right hon. Friend will he glad to have the information.