§ Sir J. D. REESalso asked whether boys aged from ten to twelve are now employed in London in the place of older boys and of men in order that employers may avoid the insurance tax; and, if so, what steps the Government proposes to take in view of the resulting interference with the education of the young boys in question?
§ Mr. MASTERMANI am not aware of any such cases. Boys of the ages mentioned are of course bound by law to attend school, and both parents and employers are liable to a fine if they are employed instead. Employment of boys under twelve outside school hours is stringently regulated by-laws made by the London County Council under the Employment of Children Act. Under these by-laws no child under eleven may be employed at all; and employment for those between eleven and twelve is only allowed within very limited hours. If the hon. Member will communicate any cases he has in mind to the Local Education Authorities concerned, I have no doubt they will take the necessary action through their school attendance officers to see that the law is observed.