§ 44. Major ATTLEEasked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that the Thateham Board and Paper Mills, Limited, are working their employés 483 on 12-hour shifts; and whether, in view of the fact that the Government advanced £100,000 for the building of the mill under a development scheme and that unemployment is so severe, he will bring pressure to bear on this company to revert to the 8-hour shift formerly in operation?
§ Sir M. BARLOWSo far as I am aware, no assistance has been given under the Trade Facilities Act to the Thatcham Board and Paper Mills, Limited. I do not know under what circumstances the 12-hour shift is being worked. I am sure that employers generally recognise the importance of ensuring the maximum amount of employment, and I am calling this firm's attention to the hon. Member's question.
§ Major ATTLEEIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that a guarantee was given to this firm for the building of these mills, and does not that imply some consideration on the part of the Government Department?
§ Sir M. BARLOWI have answered that. I have said that I believe the position to be that the guarantee was not given to this particular mill.
§ Mr. RILEYWill the right hon. Gentleman, in making inquiries, bear in mind that all the trade unions concerned with the class of labour referred to have a firm agreement for a 48-hour week?
§ Brigadier-General CLIFTON BROWNIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the relations between the management and the employés have always been of a cordial nature, and will he see that the extension of these works awl factory is not hindered in any way, in view of the fact that when they are completed they will give employment to nearly 1,000 men and women, to the great advantage of the trade and commerce of the country?