HC Deb 18 May 1939 vol 347 c1654W
Mr. Gallacher

asked the First Commissioner of Works whether he is aware that at the munitions factory at Bishopton two boilers of the heater-tube type are being erected; that boilermakers as a rule are employed at erecting these boilers at a wage rate of is. 6½d. per hour; that instead of employing boilermakers, labourers at a lower rate of wages are being employed on this job; and will he make inquiries and take what steps are necessary?

Captain A. Hudson

I have been asked to reply. I am informed that the boilers are being erected in accordance with the usual practice; that the work being done is not such as calls for the services of boilermakers, but of skilled water tube erectors with the assistance of unskilled and semi-skilled labour. As at present informed, my right hon. Friend is not in a position to call upon the contractors to employ other types of labour.