HC Deb 21 June 1939 vol 348 c2263W
Mr. Westwood

asked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that lock-keepers on the Forth and Clyde canal are responsible for attendance 24 hours per day for six days per week; that in lieu of the two statutory holidays they are only allowed off for eight hours on each of two days instead of being allowed off for two days of 24 hours; and whether he will intervene with the company responsible for the working of the canal with a view to remedying this grievance?

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

My information is that the conditions under which these men are employed are in accordance with the provisions of a National Agreement between the main line railway companies and the union representing the men concerned and that, if it is desired to raise any question with regard to these conditions, the appropriate course is to use the agreed machinery of negotiation.