HC Deb 29 July 1910 vol 19 cc2657-8W
Mr. O'GRADY

asked the number of vessels employed as store carriers moving ammunition, munitions of war, and general stores from place to place; whether he is aware that while the men employed are paid a less rate of wage the cost to the Admiralty is greater than would be the case if the work was undertaken by contractors who pay the trade union rate of wage to the men in their employ; and, if so, will steps be taken to inquire into the matter with a view to putting this Department on a business footing?

Mr. McKENNA

Three coasting steamers, eight sailing barges, and several tugs and dumb barges are employed in transport of explosives, etc. The conditions of service, including pay, in the naval ordnance vessels are more favourable to the men than those which obtain in the merchant service. Ammunitions and munitions of war are conveyed by Departmental vessels at a cost to the Admiralty which is not greater than the prices paid to contractors. A few years ago a Departmental Inquiry was made, and in consequence authority to use Departmental vessels or hire contractors' vessels was vested in the local officers. As the system is working satisfactorily, no further inquiries are considered necessary. Two store ships and two steam lighters are employed in conveying naval stores between home dock- yards and His Majesty's ships, etc. The rates paid to the crews compare favourably with those paid for similar work in the merchant service, and the Admiralty is fully satisfied that it is to the advantage of the Service, on economical and general grounds, to continue the employment of these vessels.