56. Mr. L Grimstonasked the Minister of Labour if he will try to get the agreement of all sections of British industry to the plan already accepted by a large section of industry under which Whit Monday this year is regarded as a normal working day and 1st June is regarded as a holiday in its place.
§ Sir W. MoncktonI am aware that in some industries a rearrangement of holidays is being made, or considered, by which 1st June would be substituted for one of the other holidays provided for under existing agreements. Any rearrangement of this kind is a matter to be settled by agreement within industry, in the light of local conditions and the desires of all the parties concerned.
Mr. GrimstonWill my right hon. and learned Friend see that the widest publicity is given to his answer to enable the many people involved to make their plans accordingly, and to come from long distances to see the Coronation if they so desire?
§ Sir W. MoncktonI can only hope that my reply will receive some publicity on this occasion.
§ Lieut.-Colonel LiptonIs the Minister aware of the vast amount of muddle and inconvenience that will be caused if thousands of people make this kind of arrangement and others do not? As a simple solution to the problem. and as the Chancellor of the Exchequer is responsible in the matter, will he urge his right hon. Friend to declare Monday, 1st June, a Bank Holiday instead of Whit Monday?
§ Sir W. MoncktonI daresay I have taken responsibility I ought not to have taken, but as many hon. Members will know, different arrangements might suit different industries in different localities. and I cannot lay down a general rule.