HC Deb 13 July 1944 vol 401 cc1862-3
5. Mr. Ellis Smith

asked the Minister of Labour if he will take steps so that all who have served in war service, including the Armed Services and industry, shall be allowed four weeks holiday with full pay, within a reasonable time after the termination of hostilities.

Mr. Bevin

I am not at present in a position to make, any statement.

9. Mr. Ellis Smith

asked the Minister of Labour if he will undertake to suggest in the peace settlement a maximum 40-hour week and at least a two weeks' annual holiday with full pay so that they shall form part of the minimum standards to be applied throughout the world; and if he can state the main principles that he is proposing should form the minimum labour standard throughout the world by their inclusion in the peace settlement.

Mr. Bevin

His Majesty's Government in considering questions relating to the peace settlement will not fail to pay full regard to the part played by the workers in the war effort. I have already communicated to the House the declaration adopted by the International Labour Conference at Philadelphia in which certain fundamental principles of social policy are formulated. His Majesty's Government have welcomed this declaration. It is for the International Labour Conference in accordance with its constitutional procedure to adopt International Labour Conventions laying down minimum international standards in respect of hours of work, holidays with pay and other matters.

Mr. Shinwell

Has the right hon. Gentleman received a communication from the Trades Union Congress General Council on the subject of a forty-hour week? If so, what is being done about it?

Mr. Bevin

I must have notice of that question.

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