HC Deb 28 March 1935 vol 299 cc2057-8
1. Miss WARD

asked the Minister of Labour what progress he has made with his discussions with the employers of labour on the question of the reduction of hours?

The MINISTER of LABOUR (Mr. Oliver Stanley)

I am meeting representatives of employers in the engineering and the iron and steel trades this week, and propose to have similar meetings with other industries at an early date.

Mr. TINKER

When can we expect a more reasoned reply about these discussions? Shall we put down a question or will the right hon. Gentleman make a statement?

Mr. STANLEY

I think we had better wait and see.

Mr. GODFREY NICHOLSON

Is my right hon. Friend considering the question of the mines?

Mr. STANLEY

That is more a question for the Mines Department. The mines do not come under the Ministry of Labour.

Mr. T. SMITH

Has the right hon. Gentleman met the mineowners?

Mr. STANLEY

As I have said, the mines are a matter more for the Mines Department than for the Ministry of Labour.

Mr. PIKE

Has the right hon. Gentleman met the representatives of the trade unions?

Mr. STANLEY

I am constantly in touch with the Trades Union Council.