HC Deb 02 May 1978 vol 949 c65W
26. Mr. Hugh Jenkins

asked the Secretary of State for Employment what powers he has to impose a maximum working week; and whether he intends to seek an extension of those powers.

Mr. Golding

The United Kingdom does not have any general legislation which stipulates maximum normal working hours, and there is no intention to introduce such legislation. We take the view that this is a matter for negotiation between management and unions, subject, however, to regulation in the interests of health and safety.