§ 52. Lord H. CAVENDISH-BENTINCKasked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the expressed intention of M. Herriot, in regard to the Conventions of the International Labour Organisation, of ratifying the eight-hours day and others, the Government intends to introduce the Eight-hours Day Bill without further delay, in order to ensure speedy ratification by this country?
§ The PRIME MINISTERThe Government propose to introduce a Bill dealing with the question in the near future; but having regard to the state of Parliamentary business it will not, I fear, be possible to secure its passage into law before the autumn.
§ Mr. W. THORNEIs my right hon. Friend aware that at the Geneva Conference the Labour delegates vigorously protested against the delay in the introduction of this Eight-hours Bill?
§ Mr. B. TURNERIs it not a fact that we have had for at least four months the statement from the Prime Minister and Minister of Labour that this Bill will be introduced shortly? When will "shortly" expire?
§ Mr. W. GREENWOODIs it not a fact that the Minister of Labour stated this afternoon that some further mills have been stopped in Lancashire, causing more unemployment in the last month?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI am aware that some references were made to this subject at the recent meeting in Geneva. If legislation has not been introduced before now, I do not think it is our fault. It is being pressed forward. There are a good many details to be considered. The Bill is ready and is being considered by the parties concerned.