§ Mr. LLOYDasked the Under-Secretary for War whether he is aware that the maximum rate for first and second class book-keepers in Woolwich Arsenal has been reduced from £2 4s. 6d. and £1 17s. 6d. per week, fixed in 1883, to £2 2s. and £1 17s. per week; is he aware that this class of employés are expected to keep themselves in a high state of efficiency; that the minimum rate of pay for a labourer has increased during the above period from 17s. to 25s. per week, owing to the increased cost of living and rent; and will he state whether he will take immediate steps to cancel this recent order?
§ Mr. TENNANTOn a review of the wages of book-keepers in different departments of the Arsenal, new limits were recently fixed. These give improved terms to some men, but slightly reduce the maxima hitherto permissible in other cases. There has been no reduction in the wages drawn by any individual.