HC Deb 18 April 1940 vol 359 cc1103-4
68. Sir Ernest Graham-Little

asked the Home Secretary whether he proposes to set up any committee, such as that set up in 1915, to consider the health of munition workers; and what steps are being taken at the present time to ensure that the output of munition works, and other undertakings engaged in Government contract work, does not suffer through the enforcement of long hours, reduction of holidays and worsening of conditions generally?

Sir J. Anderson

The Health of Munition Workers' Committee was succeeded by the Industrial Health Research Board, which is still in active operation; and since the last war there have been considerable developments in the matter of industrial welfare. The Board have just issued a special report, called "Industrial Health in War," containing recommendations as to hours of work and other matters. The Government have prominently in mind the importance of avoiding the mistaken policy of attempting to increase output by excessively long hours and other arrangements which are liable to diminish the workers' speed and efficiency. The question what further steps can advantageously be taken to ensure that this aspect of the problem of production receives full attention by all concerned is one on which I am at the present time in consultation with the Supply Departments and my right hon. Friend the Minister of Labour.

Sir E. Graham-Little

Will my right hon. Friend bear in mind that in the last war the special departments of the hospitals were flooded with cases of injury sustained in munitions manufacture and that it was found that medical treatment in the early phases of these disorders was very successful in shortening their duration? Will he take thought for the provision of early medical treatment in the present position?

Sir J. Anderson

I will take note of what the hon. Member has said.

Mr. Ede

Could the right hon. Gentleman say if investigations have proved the effect of long hours on the costings staffs in shipyards?

Sir J. Anderson

I could not answer that question without notice.

Mr. Mander

Has the report in question been published?

Sir J. Anderson

Yes, Sir.