§ Mr. CROOKSasked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether the firm of Messrs. C. and E. Morton, Millwall, are contractors to the Admiralty; if so, whether he is aware that a trade dispute is in progress there against the employment of juvenile labour on work usually done by adults; and whether he will have inquiries made and take whatever steps are necessary to ensure that the Fair-Wages Clause is complied with, and that the present cessation of work at the factory in the tinning of food does not result in the supply to the Department of food unfit for consumption?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAThe reply to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. There have been reports in the Press as to the existence of a strike at Messrs. Morton's works at Millwall, but no allegation has been made to the Admiralty as to any breach of the Fair-Wages Clause having been committed. Inquiries will be made. With regard to the last part of the question, the usual steps will be taken to ensure that supplies are fully in accordance with contract requirements.