§ Mr. BROOKESasked the President of the Board of Trade to what amount the Port of London authority are permitted to raise its charge to meet the increase of payment that has been given to temporary workers on the staff; and will he 2696W receive representations from the employés' trade union to show whether or not the money is being expended in the manner for which it is earmarked?
§ Mr. WARDLEThe increase in the dock rates and charges on vessels and goods in the Port of London over those in force on the 23rd April, 1917, was recently raised from 50 per cent. to 70 per cent. While the increase of wages is, no doubt, the main factor which renders increased charges necessary, it is not the only factor, and the additional revenue is not earmarked to any particular purpose.