HC Deb 15 March 1939 vol 345 cc415-6
90. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether he is aware of the laboratory agreement affecting film-production workers; whether he will ensure that all future contracts for films for Government Departments shall be placed at one of the laboratories signatory to the agreement; and whether he will take any action to see that all laboratories desirous of securing such work from Governmental Departments shall become parties to the agreement?

The Financial Secretary to the Treasury (Captain Euan Wallace)

All contracts let by Government Departments to contractors in this country for the supply of stores and the execution of services include a clause embodying the Fair Wages Resolution of the House of Commons of 10th March, 1909. It would be contrary to practice to confine the issue of contracts to firms who are signatories to any particular agreement for the industry concerned.

Mr. Sorensen

While thanking the right hon. and gallant Gentleman for his reply, may I ask whether he is aware that there is considerable resentment among firms tendering for film work on the ground that other firms secure contracts although they are not paying fair wages? Will he look into that matter?

Captain Wallace

The Fair Wages Clause is an essential part of every Government contract.