§ Mr. MacShaneTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what measures his Department is taking to ensure that its contractors and suppliers(a) pay their employees a wage which ensure such employees do not need supplementary welfare payments via various state benefits and (b) meet workplace health and safety regulations; and if he will make a statement. [21453]
§ Mr. BoswellThe Department seeks to award contracts in accordance with chapter 31 of "Government Accounting" and the public procurement rules. In choosing its suppliers and contractors, the Department has regard to the eligibility, economic and financial standing, and the ability and technical capacity of its suppliers and contractors to deliver the contracted goods and services at the contracted charges. Terms and conditions of employment, including wages, are a matter between contractors or suppliers and their employees, subject of course to any relevant legal requirements. Compliance with health and safety regulations is a legal requirement for contractors or suppliers.