§ 27. Mr. J. DAVISONasked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that, arising out of the Corn Sales Act, 1921, men engaged carrying sacks of corn to and from lighters, ships and warehouses are carrying weights up to 18 and 20 stones all day long, and in some cases for 1589 several days together, resulting in damage to their physique, accidents and sometimes loss of life; and whether any steps can be taken to ameliorate the conditions of labour of these workmen?
Mr. LOCKER-LAMPSONNo complaints on this subject have been received at the Home Office, and, so far as London is concerned, it would appear from inquiries made by the Factory Department that the weight of the sack does not generally exceed 16 stones, which is regarded by the men as reasonable, and that there has been no recent alteration in the practice. If, however, the hon. Member will furnish me with the information on which his question is based, I shall be glad to have the matter further investigated.