§ Mr. ALFRED SHORTasked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that the wages paid to lock-keepers and collectors in the employ of the Lee Conservancy Board are extremely low; whether the advances given during the whole period of the War up to date amount in a number of eases to 4s. per 902W these two prices as between freight and insurances:—
week; whether able-bodied men employed on the River Stort are receiving from 17s. to 21s. per week with house rent free; whether he is aware the Board have refused to meet a deputation from the men to discuss adjustments of wages; and, if so, will he cause inquiry to be made?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAIn the latter part of 1919 my Department were in communication with the Lee Conservancy Board with regard to claims put forward on behalf of their employés by the National Union of Docks, Wharves and Shipping Clerks, and the Department were informed that after friendly negotiations with the men's representatives certain decisions were arrived at by the Board and accepted by those representatives. With regard to the claim for a further advance of wages, no report of a difference in connection with the claim has been made to my Department, but I understand that the matter has recently been considered by the Board, who have decided that as the case of these men was settled so recently as November last, they could not see their way to re-open the question. I am making enquiries of the Board, and will communicate with my hon. Friend.