§ 47. Mr. KIRKWOODasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is aware that the Scottish Milk Marketing Board has issued a circular to employés, stating they are to work a 66-hour week on the average; and if, in view of the general demand for a reduction in working hours to a maximum of 48 hours per week, he will bring this matter to the notice of the board with a view to having the circular withdrawn in favour of the recognition of a 48-hour week?
§ Sir G. COLLINSOn the information before me I do not think that 796 the effect of the circular is correctly stated in the first part of the question. I am drawing the board's attention to the hon. Member's question but I may remind him that I have no authority to interfere with the administrative arrangements in connection with the operation of a Marketing Scheme.
§ Mr. KIRKWOODIf I place in the Minister's hands conclusive proof that they have been asked to work 66 hours, will he use the influence which he undoubtedly has to see that this circular is not put into operation in the milk industry in Scotland?
§ Sir G. COLLINSIf the hon. Member will supply me with that information, I will pass it on to the proper authorities, but I must remind him again that I have no power to interfere in the administrative arrangements of this scheme.