HC Deb 20 June 1940 vol 362 c218
8. Mr. Mander

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Labour the usual practice adopted by companies engaged on war work as to the rate of payment for their office staff when kept working on Saturday afternoons and Sundays; and what is the policy which the Government are recommending should be pursued?

Mr. Assheton

It is the view of the Government that questions as to the payments to be made to workpeople in respect of week-end working should be settled in accordance with any provisions in agreements relating to this matter. Where no such agreements exist the matter appears to be one for settlement between managements and representatives of the employés concerned.

Mr. Mander

Is the Minister aware that in a great many cases there are no agreements and that this is a new problem, and will the Government give some guidance to firms all over the country who really want to know what they ought to do?

Mr. Assheton

In the Government's view it is best to leave managements and employés to settle these matters between themselves.

Mr. Mander

What are the Government doing in their own factories?

Sir Robert Young

Would it not be advisable for the Government to suggest a remedy themselves?