HC Deb 02 May 1889 vol 335 cc984-5
MR. CUNINGHAME GRAHAM

asked the President of the Board of Trade if the Government had made up its mind as to sending representatives to the International Labour Conference summoned by the Swiss Government at Berne?

*THE FIRST LORD OF THE TREASURY (Mr. W. H. SMITH,) Strand, Westminster

Communications are passing in reference to this subject, but no result has yet been attained.

MR. BROADHURST (Nottingham, W.)

asked the First Lord of the Treasury whether the Government was in possession of any proposal from the Swiss Government with regard to a Conference between the two countries on the question of the hours of labour of females and young persons; whether there was any correspondence on the subject between the two Governments which could be presented to the House; and, whether, if such a conference was contemplated, what other European nations would be invited to take part in it?

*MR. W. H. SMITH

I think the hon. Gentleman must have understood from answers to previous questions that this subject is under the consideration of Her Majesty's Government, and no decision has yet been arrived at.

MR. BROADHURST

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman to keep the House well informed on this subject, and especially those who are chiefly interested and who consider it a matter of great importance?

*MR. W. H. SMITH

As soon as a decision is come to upon the communications now passing, information will be given to the House.