§ 39. Mr. Glenvil Hallasked the Home Secretary how many local education authorities in England and Wales have prohibited the employment of schoolchildren under the age of 13 during term time; and how many have extended this prohibition to school holidays?
§ Sir J. AndersonSixty-nine local education authorities have made by-laws prescribing 13 as the age below which children are not to be employed. This prohibition applies both to term time and holidays.
§ 40. Mr. Hallasked the Home Secretary how many local education authorities in England and Wales have by-laws permitting the employment of schoolchildren during holidays in harvesting or other agricultural operations for periods up to four hours per day and over four hours 552 per day, respectively; and which authorities permit such employment for six, seven or eight hours per day?
§ Sir J. AndersonCopies of the by-laws made by local authorities relating to the employment of children are filed in the Home Office. I am having these by-laws examined, and I will send the hon. Member the information for which he asks, so far as it can be ascertained.
§ Mr. HallWill the right hon. Gentleman see that local authorities do not go back on the legislation which has been passed in the last few years affecting child life, either during term time or during the holidays?
§ Sir J. AndersonAs long as local authorities exercise the powers which have been conferred upon them by Parliament, I am not in a position to take action.