HC Deb 25 May 1954 vol 528 cc198-9
30. Mr. Keenan

asked the Secretary of State for War why overtime was paid for only one week instead of for three weeks to the civilians employed at the 46th Airborne Workshops, Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers Territorial Camp, Tetford, in September, 1953.

Mr. J. R. H. Hutchison

These civilian employees have been paid at the appropriate rates for the hours of work recorded on their time sheets. The time sheets were signed by the employees themselves and certified by a responsible officer.

Mr. Keenan

Is the Minister aware, as I think he may be, that I have been in correspondence with him for six months on this matter? Is it not significant that only one week of overtime was paid for—£3 16s. 4d.—after I had complained, and is he not of the opinion that the officer responsible has not booked the time and so has deprived the men of at least £3 or £4 to which they were entitled?

Mr. Hutchison

It is hard to see how one can pay more than the time sheets show. I have studied the time sheets, and the payments made are in conformity with the time sheets, which were signed by the men. But, in view of the hon. Gentleman's representations, we have asked the appropriate officer in Eastern Command to get in touch with the unit officer concerned to discuss whether evidence is obtainable of any underpayment beyond what has already been rectified. If, moreover, the hon. Member himself can supply any more evidence, I should be very glad to look into it.

Mr. Keenan

I have sent to the hon. Gentleman the name of the officer concerned—in the last letter I wrote to him.

Mr. Hutchison

I think I have answered that; the officer concerned is being interviewed.

31. Mr. Keenan

asked the Secretary of State for War the conditions and rates of payment offered to civilians to be employed at Territorial camps during the present year.

Mr. J. R. H. Hutchison

The general conditions of service and rates of wages are those applicable to all temporary or casual employees of the War Department. The wage rates vary according to the district and the particular work for which the employee is engaged.

Mr. Keenan

Can the hon. Gentleman say if the officers concerned are instructed to book correctly the time of those who do the work?