HC Deb 16 March 1939 vol 345 cc577-8
13. Mr. Rhys Davies

asked the Minister of Labour whether he has now made inquiries into the proposals of the Wool Combing and Spinning Company, Mossley, Lancashire, to extend the hours of labour of some of their workpeople to 61 per week; and, if so, with what results?

Mr. E. Brown

The necessary inquiries are in progress, but I have not yet received a report.

Mr. Davies

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that this firm is now engaging men to work from 65 to 70 hours a week at the rate of 10½d. per hour. Is it not possible for him to lay down that foreign employers who come to this country shall not be allowed to degrade our conditions of employment?

Mr. Brown

Perhaps the hon. Gentleman will allow me to complete my inquiries first.

Mr. Davies

It has taken the right hon. Gentleman a week already. Would the right hon. Gentleman take evidence from the trade unions affected by this action as well as from the employers?

Mr. Brown

I shall be very pleased to do anything I can to get all the facts. The hon. Gentleman says that it has taken me a week; he will know that the position is not an easy one, but when I make inquiries I make full inquiries.