HC Deb 05 March 1909 vol 1 cc1793-4W
Mr. SUMMERBELL

asked the First Commissioner of Works, in regard to the concession made some months ago to the labourers employed at Bushey Park when performing acting gatekeepers' duties, if he could see his way clear to make the same concession to the men doing similar work at Richmond Park?

Mr. HARCOURT:

The case of the acting gatekeepers at Richmond Park is not quite similar to that of those at Bushy Park. At Bushy the road is open day and night to all kinds of traffic; at Richmond the gates are closed at dusk. Although the hours are long in summer, in winter they are the same as those of an ordinary labourer for five days in the week, and the duty is not nearly so arduous. In consideration, however, of the extra hours of duty on Saturday afternoons, the pay for Saturday will be raised from 3s. 10d. to 5s. for that day—the same rate as at Bushy Park; but for week-days and Sundays the present pay, which is 3s. 10d., is, I consider, sufficient, having regard to the nature of the duties.

Mr. SUMMERBELL

asked whether two foremen are being advertised for for the London Royal parks, and that the ages of the applicants are to be between 30 and 35 years; if so, will he explain why this departure is made from the practice of promoting men already employed in view of its effect in discouraging men now employed in the parks; and why the maximum age is fixed so low?

Mr. HARCOURT:

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. There has been no departure from the practice of the Department. Of seven foremen appointed within the past 12 years only two were drawn from the parks staff. Among the numerous applications which have been received for the two posts now vacant several are from men at present employed in the parks, and these will receive due consideration. It is desirable to obtain young and active men as foremen, and 35 is the usual limit of age.

Mr. SUMMERBELL

asked whether it is the intention to fix the age of 35 as the maximum so far as employment in the Royal parks is concerned?

Mr. HARCOURT:

The maximum limit of age of entry has been fixed at 35 for some time past for all persons employed in the Royal parks except park-keepers, lavatory attendants, and men engaged for temporary work.