HC Deb 23 April 1917 vol 92 c2061W
Mr. C. DUNCAN

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that, owing to the increased cost of living, the wages of the labourers at Woolwich have been raised by 14s. per week since the outbreak of War; whether he is aware that the labourers' wages at Aldershot and Weedon have only been raised by 4s. per week, although they have had to meet the same increased cost; and whether he will take such steps as will equalise the position of these workmen who are placed in such a disadvantageous position without any apparent justification?

Mr. FORSTER

The figures are as stated by the hon. Member, but I am not prepared to admit that the whole of the rise at Woolwich is due to increased cost of living. As was explained to him in reply to his question on the 5th, the 5s. rise at Woolwich was an award to certain trades, and docs not apply generally to Aldershot and Weedon. I will inquire whether there is any justification for a further advance at these two stations.