HC Deb 23 September 1948 vol 456 c1082
50. Major Guy Lloyd

asked the Minister of Labour when investigations will be carried out into the effect on productivity and prices of the general shortening of hours of work during the past three years.

Mr. Isaacs

Productivity and prices and all the factors affecting them are under constant review by the Government. Special investigations covering the period mentioned, during which industry was engaged in the changeover from wartime production, are not contemplated.

Major Lloyd

Is it not a fact that the demand by the Government for increased production and increased output per man and the constant appeal of the workers and the trade unions for a reduction in prices could both be met to a very large extent by a lengthening of the hours?

Mr. Isaacs

There are many other factors to be taken into consideration in a matter of this kind. I do not propose to comment further upon that supplementary question because it does not arise out of the original Question, but I may say that the situation is kept under review.