HC Deb 13 March 1963 vol 673 cc1347-8
30. Mrs. Hart

asked the Minister of Labour what representations have been made to him by trade unions or by the Trades Union Congress to introduce legislation restricting the employment of women for reward during the period following childbirth.

38. Mrs. Butler

asked the Minister of Labour what representations have been made to him about the need for amend- ing legislation in regard to the employment of women after childbirth; and from which organisations they came.

Mr. Hare

In March, 1961, the Trades Union Congress asked for provision to be made in the Offices, Shops and Railway Premises Bill, prohibiting the employment of women for seven weeks after childbirth.

Mrs. Hart

What representations has the right hon. Gentleman received in relation to the Private Member's Bill introduced by the noble Lord the Member for Hertford (Lord Balniel)? Has he received representations from women associated with the T.U.C. or from other women's organisations opposing it?

Mr. Hare

No. The representations I have received were from the T.U.C. It was thought that this matter would be better dealt with in the Bill introduced by my noble Friend than in the Government's Measure.

Dame Irene Ward

Will my right hon. Friend accept the suggestion that, since a Bill which takes a great deal of understanding is likely to cause some concern, it would be more helpful if women Members on both sides of the House were consulted before it was introduced?

Mr. Hare

I am sure that my noble Friend will take note of what my hon. Friend says.