HC Deb 22 April 1969 vol 782 cc249-50
31. Mr. Donald Williams

asked the Minister of Public Building and Works by what means his Department employs heating and ventilating contractors on Government construction projects; and in accordance with which agreements the operatives are paid.

22. Mr. Carlisle

asked the Minister of Public Building and Works what estimate he has made of the increase in productivity by operatives engaged in heating and ventilating work on Government construction contracts in 1969.

Mr. Mellish

On Government construction projects heating and ventilating work is generally undertaken by nominated sub-contractors. The nomination will usually be made after competitive tenders have been invited from firms selected from the Ministry's approved list of specialist sub-contractors.

The contractors pay wages in accordance with the national wage agreements for the trade, but actual payments are their responsibility. I cannot, therefore, estimate the increase in productivity by operatives in this section of the industry in 1969.

Mr. Williams

While thanking the Minister for that reply, perhaps I should avail myself of the opportunity to accept his invitation and refer this question to his right hon. Friend the First Secretary.