HC Deb 01 July 1920 vol 131 cc669-70W
Mr. SWAN

asked the Secretary of State for India if he will use his powers to get a Coal Mines Regulation Act promoted in India prohibiting women from entering the coal mines and raising the school age to 14 years before children are permitted to work in or about the mines, and limit the working hours for miners to eight hours per day and fix a minimum wage so as to guarantee a decent standard of living, and also providing compensation for all fatal and non-fatal accidents?

Mr. MONTAGU

The International Labour Conference at Washington recommended for Indian industries a 60-hour week and an age limit of 12 years. These recommendations apply to mines. The Government of India are now considering them in accordance with Article 405 of the Treaty of Versailles. As regards the other points brought to notice, I will ask the Government of India to consider the hon. Member's suggestion.

Back to