HC Deb 14 July 1913 vol 55 cc885-6
74. Mr. ALDEN

asked the number of children and young persons under eighteen years of age employed in factories, also the number under sixteen?

Mr. McKENNA

The last year for which figures are available is 1907. The number of children and young persons under eighteen employed in factories at that time was about 830,000, and it is estimated the number of these under sixteen would be about 420,000. Returns of employment have been collected for 1912, but the figures are not yet available.

Sir W. MENZIES

May I ask why the year 1907 is the last for which the right hon. Gentleman has figures?

Mr. McKENNA

I will inquire.

75. Mr. ALDEN

asked the Home Secretary whether he can give the latest figures for half-timers, with the number of boys and girls in each case?

Mr. McKENNA

I understand the questime to refer to employment of half-timers in factories and workshops. The last year for which figures of such employment are available is 1907; the numbers then were 17,916 boys, and 19,211 girls, or 37,127 in all.

Mr. ALDEN

Can the right hon. Gentleman ask the officers of his Department to get later figures than 1907?

Mr. McKENNA

I will inquire further into the point. I should say those figures were only handed to me just before I came into the House.

Mr. BOOTH

Has my right hon. Friend information about those half-timers who are allowed to be at home half the day and at school half the day by the school attendance committees?

Mr. McKENNA

I think I can give my hon. Friend the information.