HC Deb 18 April 1940 vol 359 cc1117-8
63. Mr. Mander

asked the Home Secretary the average and maximum hours of work per week in Government factories, including overtime?

Sir J. Anderson

The variation of conditions in different factories and at different times is such that I fear it is not possible to give a picture of the position within the compass of a reply to a Question, but the importance of avoiding excessive hours of work is a matter to which due attention is being given by all Departments responsible for Government factories.

Mr. Mander

Is it not the case that in some instances hours of work are between 70 and 90, and is the Home Secretary satisfied that production is actually increasing?

Sir J. Anderson

That point is dealt with in answer to another Question. I have established contact between the Factories Department and the various Supply Departments.

64. Mr. Mander

asked the Home Secretary the arrangements made generally for welfare work in Government factories; what persons or organisations are in charge of it; and whether it is being done through a Government Department or voluntary agency?

Sir J. Anderson

Welfare arrangements in a Government factory are primarily a matter for the Department responsible for that particular factory, and the extent to which the staffs of factories are assisted by voluntary welfare organisations varies with the circumstances; but the Home Office as the Department responsible for the administration of the Factories Acts is much interested in these arrangements, and I have been in consultation with the Supply Departments on the best method of ensuring that a forward policy shall be followed by all Government Departments and that full use shall be made of the experience and knowledge which have been acquired on the subject.

Mr. Mander

Are there no particular voluntary organisations with which the Home Office is co-operating on this matter?

Sir J. Anderson

Yes, Sir, there are voluntary organisations co-operating with Supply Departments.

Viscountess Astor

Is it not true that the Home Office knows far more about it than all the voluntary organisations put together?

Sir J. Anderson

We are able to offer them valuable assistance.