§ 4. Mr. LEACHasked the Minister of Labour whether he has considered the representations made to him by Sir Benjamin Dawson, of Bradford, on the subject of a reduced working week as a means of solving unemployment; and whether he is prepared to make any statement on the matter?
§ Mr. E. BROWNSir Benjamin Dawson was good enough to discuss this matter with my predecessor. He recognised that it was a necessary condition that there should be an international agreement in regard to the reduction of hours and the maintenance of wages, and in this connection I would suggest that the hon. Member should take into consideration the replies of the various countries to the International Labour Organisation relative to the discussion on the reduction of hours in the textile industries at the coming International Labour Conference. I should like to add that I regret that discussions on the subject of wages and working conditions in the wool textile industry appear to have broken down, and to express the hope 1850 that it will be found possible to take steps to secure agreed conditions as to hours and wages in that industry.
§ Mr. LEACHIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that this eminent Conservative is now so disappointed and disillusioned that anything may happen to his political allegiances?
§ Mr. LYONSCan my right hon. Friend assure the House that his consultations with the representatives of industry are still taking place with reference to the reduction of the working week?