§ 22. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYasked the Minister of Labour whether there are any regulations limiting the hours of labour and the distances travelled on the road during the 24 hours by the drivers of large passenger omnibuses undertaking long journeys into the country; and, if so, what are they?
§ Mr. BETTERTONI would refer the hon. and gallant Member to the reply given to the hon. Member for Anglesey (Sir R. Thomas) on 15th June last.
Commander WILLIAMSIs the hon. Gentleman not aware that these hours want very closely looking into, and in many cases shortening.
§ Mr. B. SMITHWill the hon. Member endeavour to find out the actual facts? It is well known that men are driving for these hours and that they are a danger to the community.
§ Mr. BETTERTONI would point out that the Ministry of Labour have no power to make regulations with regard to the hours of work.
§ Mr. BETTERTONIt would seem to follow that we are entitled to look to the hon. Members opposite to support us in our policy of revision.
Sir F. HALLHas the hon. Gentleman had any complaints made to him, either in individual cases or collective cases, of the overwork referred to in the question; and, if he has, will he kindly look into them?
§ Mr. BETTERTONThis really is not a matter which concerns the Ministry of Labour at all, and I would suggest that this question should be addressed to the Ministry of Transport.