§ 31. Mr. MANDERasked the Minister of Labour if he is aware that an Act has recently been promulgated by Italy enabling that country to ratify unconditionally the Washington Hours Convention; and whether the British Government proposes to take similar action?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY of the MINISTRY of LABOUR (Mr. R. S. Hudson)My right hon. Friend is aware that an Act regulating hours of work has been promulgated in Italy but he is not in a position to express an 1811 opinion on its terms in relation to the Washington Hours Convention. The position of the British Government with regard to the Washington Hours Convention remains as explained to my hon. Friend in the reply given to him on 27th October, 1932.
§ Mr. MANDERIs not this a good opportunity to carry out the well-known policy of the Government, always to follow and never to lead?
§ Mr. T. WILLIAMSAre we to understand that the Government are in no way going to change their minds?
§ Mr. HUDSONNot as regards the Washington Hours Convention.
§ Mr. WILLIAMSWhen will there be a possibility of the Government considering this problem?
§ Mr. THORNECan the hon. Member say whether the Government have definitely decided not to ratify the Washington Hours Convention? Is he not aware that Governments have been juggling with this question for about seven years?