HC Deb 24 July 1929 vol 230 cc1325-6W
Mr. REGINALD YOUNG

asked the Minister of Labour if she will, at an early date, ratify the League of Nations Maternity Convention, which has already been ratified by nine European nations?

Mr. LAWSON

As regards this and other International Labour Conventions which have not been ratified, it is proposed to examine each of them in the light of the existing law and practice in this country, and, except so far as the proposals of the Government have already been announced, it is not possible as yet for my right hon. Friend to say what action may be decided upon in any particular case.

Mr. MANDER

asked the Minister of Labour (1) if the Government are prepared to ratify the International Labour Office Convention of 1926, concerning seamen's articles of agreement;

(2) whether it is the intention of the Government to ratify the Draft Convention of the League of Nations, 1920 (Genoa), for establishing facilities for finding employment for seamen;

(3) if the Government are prepared to ratify the International Labour Office Convention, 1921, concerning the age of admission of children to employment in agriculture;

(4) if the Government are prepared to ratify the International Labour Office Convention, 1926, concerning the repatriation of seamen?

Miss BONDFIELD

I would refer the hon. Member to the reply (of which I am sending him a copy) given to-day to the question standing in the name of the hon. Member for Islington North (Mr. Reginald Young).

Mr. MANDER

asked the Minister of Health (1) whether the Government are prepared to ratify the International Labour Office Convention, 1927, concerning sickness insurance for agricultural workers;

(2) if the Government are prepared to ratify the International Labour Office Convention, 1927, concerning sickness insurance for workers in industry and mines and domestic servants?

Miss BONDFIELD

It is the intention of the Government to ratify these Conventions when certain necessary amendments have been made in the National Health Insurance Act as affecting Northern Ireland. The Government of Northern Ireland has announced its intention to introduce the necessary legislation at the first convenient opportunity.