HC Deb 09 May 1911 vol 25 c1021
Mr. CHIOZZA MONEY

asked the Home Secretary if he could now state the result of his action in the matter of offences against the Factory Act by the firm of Ben Evans and Company, Limited, of Swansea?

Mr. MASTERMAN

Ten summonses were issued against the firm for illegal employment of women during part of the time allowed for meals. These cases were heard at the Swansea police-court on 1st May, and penalties of 30s. were inflicted in each case, with costs. A further charge of illegal employment of a woman after legal hours was dismissed through failure of evidence.

Mr. CHIOZZA MONEY

Can the hon. Gentleman state how it was that the factory inspectors of this district were wholly unaware of these irregularities, and indeed have denied that they existed?

Mr. MASTERMAN

I think this is the first time those irregularities were brought to the notice of the inspectors, and they made an investigation immediately.

Mr. CHIOZZA MONEY

How is it that the inspectors were unaware of the existence of these irregularities?