HC Deb 05 August 1924 vol 176 c2773W
Mr. MACLEAN

asked the Minister of Labour if he is aware that a strike has occurred on the Anniesland and Duntocher contracts of Messrs. Sir Robert Macalpine and Company; that the rates paid on these contracts were discussed by the Civil Engineering Conciliation Board as far back as 12th June last, when it was agreed that the claim should he referred to arbitration; and that the strike is due to the delay of Messrs. Sir Robert Macalpine and Company in agreeing to terms of reference; and what steps he is taking to have the matter satisfactorily settled?

Miss BONDFIELD

I understand that work has been resumed on these contracts pending further negotiations.

Mr. MACLEAN

asked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware that a strike has taken place on the Anniesland and Duntocher contracts of Messrs. Robert M'Alpine and Company; that the rates paid on these contracts were discussed by the civil engineering conciliation board as far hack as 12th June; that the conciliation board agreed to refer the claim to arbitration; that the strike now in progress has been caused by the delay of Messrs. Robert M'Alpine and Company in not agreeing to the terms of reference; that the fair wages clause of this board states that where there are no such wages and hours recognised or prevailing in the district, those recognised or prevailing in the nearest district in which the general industrial circumstances are similar shall be adopted; and whether, as these contracts are for local authorities to whom grants are being paid by the Ministry of Transport, he is prepared, in the event of Sir Robert M'Alpine refusing to agree to arbitration within the next seven days, to notify the authorities for whom this work is being done that no further grants will be paid for these roads unless Sir Robert M'Alpine's firm accepts the conditions laid down by an arbitration board?

Mr. GOSLING

I am not aware of all the details recited by my hon. Friend, but I am having full inquiry made in order to elicit the facts for my guidance in dealing with the case.