§ Mr. KENYONasked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that in a Government publication, entitled "The Future," issued in September, 1919, an announcement was made of the Government's programme for that year; whether he is aware that the first two items on that programme are a national maximum 48-hours' week and a living wage for all1284W workers; and if he can say when these pledges will be redeemed?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAAs far as regards legislation on the subject of a 48-hours' week, the exact form of the Bill has been continuously under discussion with the Provisional Joint Committee of the National Industrial Conference in the hope of arriving at an agreement with that Committee on the precise form which that legislation should take. In addition, it has been necessary to consider the Washington Hours Convention and also the proposals discussed at the International Labour Conference at Genoa in regard to the hours of employment of seamen. The Government fully intend to carry through the necessary legislation. As regards wages, I would remind my hon. Friend that much of the area of the wage field is now covered, and is being further covered by the development of the Trade Board policy, and by arriving at settlement by agreement either through discussions at Joint Industrial Councils or otherwise.