HC Deb 29 April 1931 vol 251 c1630
58. Sir K. WOOD

asked the Minister of Labour if the Government have now decided to ratify the draft Convention on Forced Labour; and whether any further countries have signified their intention to ratify with or without reservations?

Mr. LAWSON

The Government propose to ratify the Draft Convention concerning Forced or Compulsory Labour. A White Paper (Cmd. 3841) was laid on 16th April setting out the Government's proposal. With regard to ratification by other countries, I have no information to add to the answer given to the right hon. Gentleman the Member for St. Marylebone (Sir R. Rodd) on 30th March last.

Sir K. WOOD

Have no other countries ratified since that date?

Mr. LAWSON

I could not say if any more have since ratified, beyond the number given in the answer to the question.

Mr. MARJORIBANKS

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the majority of his party voted in favour of forced and slave labour the other day?

Mr. THORNE

Is not all labour forced under economic conditions?