HC Deb 19 October 1939 vol 352 cc1005-6
14. Mr. Leslie

asked the Minister of Labour what action he proposes to take, in view of the large number of dismissals taking place in the distributive trades, to prevent employés being thrown out of employment?

Mr. E. Brown

It is not within my power to prevent such dismissals. Some dislocation in the distributive trades was inevitable on the outbreak of war, but I would urge employers in these trades, as in others, to do their utmost to avoid creating any unnecessary unemployment, temporary though it may be.

Mr. Leslie

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that while shop assistants in evacuation areas are unemployed, those in reception areas are having to work up to 9 and 10 o'clock at night? Surely there should be a limitation of working hours in order to absorb some of those who are unemployed?

Mr. Brown

That is another matter.

Mr. J. J. Davidson

Are any special inquiries taking place with regard to the condition of workers in the distributive trades?

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