HC Deb 15 May 1958 vol 588 c595
34. Mr. Allaun

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he will consider introducing legislation to fix a maximum working week and a legal minimum wage in Hong Kong textile factories in order to improve conditions there and also to defend Lancashire against unfair competition.

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

I am awaiting certain information from the Governor about the length of the working week in industrial establishments, including textile factories, and am not yet ready to make a statement on that matter. As regards a legal minimum wage, I have nothing to add to the reply given to the hon. Member on 27th June, 1957.

Mr. Allaun

I note the Minister's reply. Is he aware that many Hong Kong operatives are working twelve hours a day for seven days a week? Could not he introduce a legal maximum of six working days a week, at least for women and girls, since no such limitation at present exists? Would not that be in the interests both of the Hong Kong workers and Lancashire, where four or five mills are closing down every week?

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

As I have said, the Governor will be shortly writing to me about this matter, and when I am ready to make a statement I shall do so.