HC Deb 26 March 1925 vol 182 cc665-6W
Mr. CONNOLLY

asked the Minister of Labour what countries have not yet adopted legislation establishing an eight-hours working day or its equivalent; and whether he has any information indicating that the longer hours worked in these countries injuriously affect British trade?

Mr. BETTERTON

I regret that owing to the varying scope of legislation in different countries and the many modifications and exceptions of detail to which it is subject, it is not possible to answer the first part of this question within the limits of a Parliamentary reply, I am, however, circulating with the OFFICIAL REPORT a list of the countries belonging to the International Labour Organisation which have not so far ratified the Hours Convention. The second part of the question depends on so many uncertain considerations that I cannot venture to express any definite opinion with regard to it.

Following is the list referred to:

STATES, MEMBERS OF THE INTERNATIONAL LABOUR ORGANISATION, WHICH HAVE NOT YET RATIFIED THE HOURS CONVENTION:
Albania. Japan.
Argentine. Latvia.
Australia. Liberia.
Belgium. Lithuania.
Bolivia. Luxemburg.
Brazil. Netherlands.
Canada. Nicaragua.
Chili. Norway.
China. Panama.
Colombia. Paraguay.
Costa Rica. Persia.
Cuba. Peru.
Denmark. Poland.
Ecuador. Portugal.
Esthonia. Salvador.
Ethiopia. San Domingo.
Finland. Kingdom of
France. Serbs, Croats,
Germany. and Slovenes.
Great Britain. Siam.
Guatemala. Spain.
Haiti. Sweden.
Hedjaz. Switzerland.
Honduras. Uruguay.
Hungary. Venezuela.
Irish Free State.