§ 57. Mr. SHEPHERDasked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that in a number of Employment Exchanges a considerable amount of overtime is being worked; and whether he will take steps to provide that where overtime exceeding 44 hours in any week is being worked redundant ex-service temporary clerks shall be engaged instead of causing the existing staff to work overtime?
§ Captain MARGESSONI have been asked to reply. My right hon. Friend would refer the hon. Member to the reply given on this subject on 22nd May to the hon. Member for Tottenham North (Mr. R. Morrison). The Department always endeavours, where there is extra work, to engage additional temporary clerks rather than resort to overtime. This, however, is not always practicable.
§ Mr. SHEPHERDIs the hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that when overtime is worked it involves an officer of higher rank staying also, whereas if temporary redundant clerks were taken on the work could be carried on by the higher officers as part of their ordinary duties?
§ Captain MARGESSONMy answer shows that it is the policy of the Department, where possible, to do that, but it is not always practicable.