§ 17. Mr. Hooleyasked the Postmaster-General how many Post Office messengers under the age of 18 years are regularly required to work a six- or seven-day week; what percentage of messengers under 18 years of age this represents; 1338 and whether he will give instructions that messengers under the age of 18 years shall not be required to work more than 40 hours in a period of seven days.
§ Mr. Joseph SlaterOf 2,958 young postmen, 47 per cent. work a six-day week, none a regular seven-day week. Standard net hours are under 40 a week but some unavoidable weekday and Sunday overtime is worked, volunteers being used as far as possible.
§ Mr. HooleyWould the Minister agree that it is undesirable that young persons should be required to work more than a 40-hour week? Could steps be taken to see that this is not necessary?
§ Mr. SlaterWe do whatever we can in accordance with the standard hours for young postmen and adults. If my hon. Friend has any complaints in regard to this matter, I will have them investigated if he will send them to me.