HC Deb 29 March 1923 vol 162 c730W
Lord H. CAVENDISH-BENTINCK

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether the Government is discharging large numbers of men from the Chilwell works where large guns are being dismantled; will he explain why contractors are doing the work formerly done by the discharged men and employing low-paid unskilled workmen in violation of the fair-wages clause; whether the contractors are employing their men on overtime at this work; and, if so, what action he proposes to take in the matter?

Major BOYD-CARPENTER

I understand that the Army authorities are discharging certain temporary employés on reduction of the establishment of the Ordnance Service at Chilwell. These discharges, however, are not connected with the arrangements that have been made between the Disposal and Liquidation Commission and the contractors engaged on breaking down guns. As regards the remaining parts of the question, I am making inquiries, and will communicate with my Noble Friend on the subject.