HC Deb 29 January 1970 vol 794 c1699
12. Mr. Gwilym Roberts

asked the Secretary of State for Employment and Productivity what further study she has made of the variations in industry in observing the industrial breaks at Christmas and the New Year; and if she will now initiate discussions with the Trades Union Congress and Confederation of British Industry on the possibilities of having an annual eight-day national holiday week covering Christmas and the New Year.

Mr. Harold Walker

Holidays in industry are a matter for negotiation and agreement between employers and employees.

Mr. Roberts

Does my hon. Friend recall that this is as far as we got last year? Is he not aware that it is a major function of his Department to provide a better life for the British industrial worker? What does he feel about the proposition that the increase in productivity after a holiday of this type would more than offset the few hours of production work lost?

Mr. Walker

It is still a matter for negotiation.