HC Deb 22 June 1938 vol 337 cc1075-6
67. Mr. Malcolm MacMillan

asked the Minister of Transport whether the fair wages clause operates on all road work financed under the five-year road plan of 100 per cent. grants from the Ministry of Transport to Highland authorities; and what wages are being paid on such works in the Isle of Lewis and on the mainland of the county of Ross and Cromarty, respectively, on these schemes?

Mr. Burgin

Yes, Sir. The fair wages clause is operative. In answer to the second part of the question the minimum hourly rate is 11d. in both cases, but I understand that the majority of men employed on the works in the mainland are, in fact, receiving higher rates.

Mr. MacMillan

Has the right hon. Gentleman received no complaints whatever about low wages being paid on these schemes?

Mr. Burgin

I have no reason to think that the fair wages clause is not being operated.