§ 7. Mr. LEACHasked the Minister of Labour why his representative at Geneva voted against the draft 40-hour week conventions for public works and buildings and civil engineering adopted by the conference on 17th June?
§ Lieut.-Colonel MUIRHEADThe vote in question was given in accordance with the policy of His Majesty's Government as explained in my right hon. Friend's speech delivered at Geneva on 9th June. Copies of the speech will be found in the Library.
§ Mr. LEACHDoes the Parliamentary Secretary realise that the line taken by the Government in this matter makes it quite impossible for anybody to believe in the genuineness of their desire to reduce unemployment?
§ Lieut.-Colonel MUIRHEADNo, Sir.
§ Mr. PALINGIs it not a fact that many of the difficulties and obstacles mentioned by the Government in regard to bringing this proposal into operation have been proved to be unreal and imaginary by the action of the French Government; and will the Government face this issue with courage and put it into operation?
§ Mr. CHARLES WILLIAMSHave not the National Government reduced unemployment, whereas the Socialists only increased it?