§ 10. Mr. W. Robson-Brownasked the Minister of Labour what is the status of the local joint overtime committees of the building trade; and what is the statutory authority of their decisions.
§ Mr. IsaacsThese overtime committees are established under the constitution of the National Joint Council for the building Industry, which is the voluntary machinery established by the two sides of the industry for the negotiations of wages and conditions of employment, and their decisions have no statutory authority in themselves. By virtue of the provisions of the Conditions of Employment and National Arbitration Order (S.R. & O. 1305 of 1940), however, these decisions may form part of the "recognised terms and conditions of employment" which must be observed under Part III of that Order.
§ Mr. Robson-BrownWill not the Minister consider using his influence with these tribunals, and with both sides in industry, to persuade them to undertake overtime in the house building section of the building industry, so that a quicker rate of building can be achieved and more houses provided for homeless people?
§ Mr. IsaacsI think it is true to say that, except for a certain case that was advertised very widely, and which was misunderstood, a little while ago, a considerable amount of overtime is worked and expedition is shown.