HC Deb 03 December 1942 vol 385 cc1292-3
44. Mr. Kenneth Lindsay

asked the President of the Board of Education whether he is aware of the large number of education authorities who have reported long hours of work among juveniles; and what action he is proposing to take?

Mr. Butler

I am aware that a number of local education authorities have reported evidence of long hours worked by some young people in their areas and this evidence has been brought to the notice of my right hon. Friend the Minister of Labour and National Service.

Mr. Lindsay

In view of the fact that this information has now been with the Ministry of Labour for six months, would the right hon. Gentleman consider the suggestion that a maximum number of hours be fixed for young people under 18 years of age henceforth, because the results of the registration will not be available until next year?

Mr. Butler

I cannot exaggerate the importance of the point made by my hon. Friend, but he may rest assured that this information, which is very valuable for the purpose which he has in mind, is being considered by my right hon. Friend, who is certainly giving it his earnest consideration and will continue to do so.

Mr. Lindsay

May I press the right hon. Gentleman upon one further point and ask him to institute a maximum number of hours, because this really is important? Boys are coming to the A.T.Cs. and other organisations completely tired, and they cannot join in the ordinary activities of these organisations.

Mr. Butler

I will certainly discuss the matter with my right hon. Friend, as I have already done.

Sir H. Williams

Has it not been a repeated recommendation of the Select Committee on National Expenditure that excessive hours are non-productive?

Mr. Butler

I very much welcome the interest shown in this matter to-day. It is a very important matter.