Mr. J. JONESasked the hon. Member for the Pollok Division of Glasgow, as representing the First Commissioner of Works, whether, in view of the fact that, in connection with the alleged violation of the Fair Wages Clause by Messrs. Macfarlane, a copy of the statement made by the trade union concerned was forwarded to the firm for their observations, a copy of the statements made to the Department by the firm and the workpeople concerned, and also by firms and employers' federations of whom inquiry was made, will be supplied to the trade union; and whether a decision on the matter will be deferred pending receipt of the further observations of the trade union?
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§ Sir J. GILMOURThe information obtained from the firms and the Employers' Federation was given confidentially and the Department was not therefore in a position to convey it to the union. No decision has yet been given, as the Department is awaiting a reply to its letter to the union of the 22nd instant.