HC Deb 04 February 1926 vol 191 cc287-8
11. Mr. ROBINSON

asked the Home Secretary whether it is proposed to introduce a Bill ratifying the convention for the eight-hour day; and, if so, when the Bill will be available for consideration by Members of this House?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of LABOUR (Mr. Betterton)

I have been asked to reply. As has already been announced in the Press, invitations are about to be issued to the Governments of Belgium, France, Germany and Italy to attend a Conference in London to consider the possibility of arriving at an international agreement for the regulation of hours of work in industry. Until this Conference has taken place it will not be possible for the Government to arrive at any decision on the question raised by the hon. Member.

Mr. RHYS DAVIES

When will the Conference be held?

Mr. BETTERTON

I hope, in the course of next month. Obviously, I cannot say definitely.

Mr. W. THORNE

When the Conference is called, will it be for the purpose of considering the advisability of putting the Washington Convention agreement regarding eight hours into operation?

Mr. BETTERTON

I cannot add anything to what the Prime Minister said in his speech. The whole question of hours, as raised by the Washington Convention, is being considered.