HC Deb 28 May 1924 vol 174 cc403-4
31. Mr. WADDINGTON

asked the Minister of Labour if he is aware that the dispute in the Dutch cotton textile trade has been settled by a reduction in wages of 7½ per cent., and an increase in working hours from 48 to 50½ and whether, seeing that Holland was a party to the Washington Labour Conference and passed an Act legalising the 48-hour week, and that the Dutch Government is now licensing this extension of working hours, he proposes to take any steps to bring the action of that Government before the International Labour Committee of the League of Nations?

Mr. SHAW

I have no information as to the facts in this dispute. In any event, I would point out that in the absence of our ratification of the Eight Hours Convention it would not be possible, even if it were desirable, for His Majesty's Government to take the action suggested.

Mr. REMER

Do the Government intend to ratify the Convention?

Mr. SHAW

I hope to present a Bill shortly for that purpose.

Mr. REMER

When will it be presented?

Mr. SHAW

As early as possible.

Mr. WADDINGTON

In view of the importance of an increase in the working hours in Holland and a decrease in wages, will the right hon. Gentleman take steps to find out the accuracy of the information—such steps as will benefit British labour?

Mr. SHAW

Yes, I will certainly take all steps to get this information, and, as I happen, from many years' experience, to know how unreliable statements are about Holland, I will take particular pains to Jet accurate information.