Mr. HinchcliffeTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what guidance is issued on minimum wages, health and safety and number of hours worked, for working children; how this guidance is distributed; and what budget is available for any enforcement of minimum standards. [19370]
§ Mr. BowisNo guidance has been issued on minimum wages. The restrictions on children's working hours are set in primary legislation and in local byelaws. All byelaws comply with guidance issued by the Department of Health to local authorities. Their enforcement is a matter for local authorities, and it is for them to devote to it the resources they deem necessary. Enforcement of health and safety legislation is a matter for the Health and Safety Executive which is the responsibility of my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the Environment.