§ 58. Mr. SHORTasked the Minister of Labour whether, arising out of consultations with representatives of industry and trade unions, he proposes to introduce legislation to give effect to a shorter working week?
§ Lieut.-Colonel MUIRHEADNo, Sir.
§ Mr. SHORTIs the Minister aware of the action which is being taken in connection with this matter in other countries?
§ Lieut.-Colonel MUIRHEADYes, we are following developments in other countries.
§ Mr. PALINGHas the Minister finished his consultations with the representatives of industry, and, if so, is he giving consideration to this matter with a view to a report upon it later on?
§ Lieut.-Colonel MUIRHEADThe hon. Member has, I think, already seen the White Paper which has been issued on this subject. This is a matter which is always under our consideration, and upon which we are always prepared to have consultation with those concerned.
§ Mr. LEACHIf the Minister cannot promise legislation in regard to the shortening of hours of work, will he, at any rate, give his representatives at Geneva further instructions on the matter and try to improve their very bad conduct there in this respect?