HC Deb 21 March 1939 vol 345 cc1101-2
21. Mr. James Griffiths

asked the Secretary for Mines whether he can make a statement in regard to the decree issued in Germany increasing the hours of work in coal mines by 45 minutes per shift; and whether he can estimate the effect this is likely to have on the export trade of this country?

Mr. Cross

With regard to the first part of the question, I have seen a statement in the Press to the effect that a decree of the nature indicated was recently issued in Germany and inquiries are being made. The answer to the second part of the question is in the negative.

Mr. Griffiths

Is this matter being discussed in the negotiations going on between the representatives of the trade in this country and the representatives of the trade in Germany?

Mr. Cross

Not to my knowledge.