HC Deb 17 July 1930 vol 241 c1449
28. Mr. MORLEY

asked the Home Secretary when he proposes to introduce a, Bill to reduce the hours of labour for workers in the distributive trades?

Mr. CLYNES

I would remind my hon. Friend that a Select Committee was appointed by this House in May last to consider and report upon proposals for limiting the hours of work of shop assistants and improving the conditions of their employment. It will obviously be necessary to await the findings of this Committee before the question of legislation is considered.

Mr. MORLEY

In view of the fact that there are more than 100,000 people unemployed in the distributive trades at the present time would it not be well to hasten the report of this committee in order that by reduction of hours we might employ some of these people?

Mr. CLYNES

It may be said that the Government have attempted to hasten it.

Mr. MANDER

Could not this matter be dealt with apart from legislation under the Trade Boards Act?

Mr. CLYNES

I think not on any large scale.