PUBLIC WORKS (HOURS OF LABOUR).

HC Deb 21 July 1938 vol 338 c2391

3. Mr. Leach

asked the Minister of Labour what information he has on the hours of work per day and per week by men employed in public works?

Mr. E. Brown

The normal hours of labour, exclusive of meal-times, fixed by the Civil Engineering Construction Conciliation Board for workmen employed by members of the Federation of Civil Engineering Contractors throughout Great Britain, are eight per day (4½ on Saturday) or 44½ per week for the winter months, and nine per day (4½ on Saturday) or 49½ per week for the summer months. The normal hours fixed by the Public Works Conciliation Board for the London area, for workers employed by members of the Public Works Contractors' Association and by local authorities in that area, are 8½ per day (4½ on Saturday) or 47 per week, throughout the year.

Mr. Leach

Could not the Minister try to induce these people to reduce the weekly hours to 40?

Mr. Brown

That is a matter for the Conciliation Board itself, which is formed in the normal way of representatives of workers and employers.

Mr. Leach

Would they not take notice of the right hon. Gentleman?

Mr. Brown

Doubtless they will see this question and the answer.