HOURS OF WORK.

HC Deb 31 May 1933 vol 278 cc1880-1

52. Mr. MANDER

asked the Minister of Labour the present position with regard to the International Labour Office proposals for a 40-hour week; and what inquiries are taking place in this country on the subject?

Mr. HUDSON

The subject of the reduction of the hours of work is on the agenda of the International Labour Conference which opens at Geneva on 8th June, 1933. My right hon. Friend has been in consultation with the National Confederation of Employers' Organisations and the General Council of the Trades Union Congress with regard to the possibility of absorbing more workers into employment whether by reduction of hours of work or otherwise. I under- stand that both bodies have inquiries in hand with regard to the question of hours of work.

Mr. MANDER

Does my hon. Friend hope to have any information to put before the Conference when it meets on the 8th June?

Mr. HUDSON

I do not think that arises out of the question.

Mr. T. WILLIAMS

May I ask whether the Minister of Labour has reached any conclusions as a result of his conversations with the employers and employed?

Mr. HUDSON

I have stated in my reply that both these bodies are now conducting investigations into the matter and that my right hon. Friend hopes to receive their observations in due course.