HC Deb 30 June 1926 vol 197 cc1128-9
19. Lord HENRY CAVENDISH-BENTINCK

asked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that the Belgian Chamber of Representatives has recently passed an Act to ratify the eight-hour day without reservation; and whether he will state the Government's policy in regard to ratification of this Convention by Great Britain?

Sir A. STEEL-MAITLAND

I understand that the Bill in question passed the Chamber of Representatives on 4th June, but I am not aware that it has yet passed the Senate. On the second part of the question I regret that the attention of the Government has been and still is so far preoccupied by the industrial situation that I am not yet able to add anything to the statement made on the 30th April by my hon. Friend the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Labour during the Debate on the Hours of Employment Bill.

Lord H. CAVENDISH-BENTINCK

Will the Government take the earliest possible opportunity of disproving the allegation that they intend to make a general attack on the hours of the working people of this country?

Sir A. STEEL-MAITLAND

I have denied that categorically in public, and in this House.

Mr. T. SHAW

Will the right hon. Gentleman say how it is possible for the Government to ratify this Convention if they pass a Bill allowing eight hours' work at the coal face?

Sir A. STEEL-MAITLAND

That question will have to be dealt with at another time.