§ Sir J. HARMOOD-BANNERasked the Pensions Minister whether he is aware that at the Ministry of Pensions the male messengers are receiving more pay than the male clerks; which is supposed to be the superior position; whether he is aware that, owing to the fact that the messengers have a union, they have had their war bonus increased to 19s. per week whereas that of the clerks still remains at 8s.; whether, if any increase is granted, the war bonus will be in ratio to the pay, which is 35s. to 27s.; whether the increase will be retrospective seeing that the messengers have been receiving theirs for some time; whether he is aware that the temporary clerks at the Admiralty are receiving £2 18s. 6d. per week and double overtime; and whether he will take steps to provide that all Government clerks should receive the same rate according to grade?
§ Sir A. GRIFFITH-BOSCAWENIn consequence of a recent decision increasing the rate of war bonus, temporary messengers are, in fact, at the moment receiving slightly higher pay than the lower grade of temporary male clerks. Representations as to the pay of male clerks were, however, made in the matter some time ago and are being considered in connection with the question of the rates of pay applicable to clerks of this grade for all Departments. The last part of the question should be addressed to the Financial Secretary to the Treasury.