§ 3. Mr. LYONSasked the Minister of Labour whether he will now give the results of his conversations with representatives of industry concerning the arrangement of a five-day working week; whether the conversations are now completed; and whether any publication thereof is to be mad either wholly or in part?
§ 18. Mr. T. SMITHasked the Minister of Labour what progress has been made as a result of the discussions with the various representative organisations with regard to a reduction in working hours; whether it is intended to continue the discussions; and, if so, what further meetings are contemplated?
§ Lieut.-Colonel MUIRHEADThese conversations have not yet been completed, and are continuing. The further trades to whom invitations have at present been issued or are about to be issued include printing, light refreshments, distributive, and the bread baking and flour confectionery trades. The question of issuing further invitations is under consideration. The conversations are of a confidential nature.
§ Mr. LYONSCan my hon. and gallant Friend say whether these conversations are proceeding now; can he say when it is expected that they will conclude; and when will he be able to give some publicity to that part of the conversations which is not confidential, in the hope that we may help him to smooth out any of the difficulties which may be superficial?
§ Lieut.-Colonel MUIRHEADI can give no undertaking of any particular time when the result of these conversations, confidential or otherwise, will be made known.
§ Mr. T. SMITHIs it the intention to issue a White Paper in the early future as to what progress has been made?
§ Lieut.-Colonel MUIRHEADIt has not got beyond conversations, but I will bear that point in mind.
§ Mr. RHYS DAVIESWill the hon. and gallant Gentleman remember that the distributive trade is by far the largest employer of labour in this country and that it is a trade that can well afford the cost of instituting a shorter working week?
§ Lieut.-Colonel MUIRHEADI will bear that point in mind.