HC Deb 25 June 1947 vol 439 cc432-3
45. Mr. Osborne

asked the Prime Minister what is the Government's policy with regard to the five-day week; and if he is satisfied that its general introduction would allow export targets to be reached.

The Prime Minister (Mr. Attlee)

The question of working hours is one which falls for determination in accordance with the circumstances of each individual industry. The considerations which the Government feel should guide decisions on this matter are set out in paragraph 136 of the Economic Survey for 1947 (Cmd. 7046), to which I would refer the hon. Member. The last part of the Question is purely hypothetical.

Mr. Osborne

Is it not quite clear that the last part of the Question is not hypothetical, and that if a five-day week is granted to one industry another industry immediately demands it, and therefore, we have to face the fact—

Mr. Speaker

Questions must seek for information, and not produce argument.

Mr. Osborne

Then may I ask for information, Mr. Speaker, whether the Prime Minister will make an appeal to both sides of the House, and to both sides of industry not to follow the shorter working week in view of our great need for increased output?

The Prime Minister

I did not quite catch the hon. Gentleman's question.

Mr. Osborne

Would the Prime Minister appeal to both sides of industry to stop this run on the shorter working week until output has been materially increased ?

The Prime Minister

I have explained that this must be taken industry by industry. Experience has shown that in some industries there is no slackening or falling off in production through the changes in hours. Each case has to be considered on its merits and it is for the two sides of industry to decide.

Mr. Henry Usborne

Is the Prime Minister aware that in a number of engineering firms with which I am acquainted, where the five-day week was introduced by the management—I admit, reluctantly —they have now found by experience that the change has produced efficiency and they are very glad of it?

The Prime Minister

That tribute is a particular example of what happens.

Mr. Thornton-Kemsley

Will the Prime Minister look into this alleged 'bedding down "of postmen which seems to be the root cause of the delay in delivery of letters?

Mr. Stokes

Is not my right hon. Friend aware that in some sections of the heavy engineering industry, it has been proved conclusively that a five-day week produces a great deal more than a five-and-a-half day week.