HC Deb 19 May 1936 vol 312 cc997-8
39. Mr. LYONS

asked the Minister of Labour the number of firms in this country where the system of the five-day week is in operation and the number where a scheme of work-sharing obtains?

Mr. E. BROWN

As regards the first part of the question, I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply which I gave on 26th March to the hon. Member for West Leyton (Mr. Sorensen). As regards the second part of the question, I regret that information is not available as to the number of firms operating work-sharing schemes; in this connection I would refer to the reply given by my predecessor on 3rd April, 1935, to the hon. Member for Leigh (Mr. Tinker). I am sending my hon. Friend copies of these replies.

Mr. LYONS

Are the right hon. Gentleman's consultations with representatives of industry taking place on all relevant matters, including the shorter working week and work-sharing generally?

Mr. BROWN

All the subjects coming under those heads are under discussion.