§ Mr. RHYS DAVIESasked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that the Manchester and Salford Council for Social Service, in the course of an investigation by the university settlement of that city, have proved that the hours of labour worked by boys in cinemas range from 51 to 82 hours per week, excluding meal times, and in the case of van boys from 44 to 70 hours per week; and whether he will take steps to bring to an end these excessive hours of work?
§ Sir J. SIMONAs the hon. Member is aware, the hours of employment of van-boys and page and other boys in cinemas1882W (in so far as not covered by existing legislation) are among the matters at present under inquiry by the Departmental Committee on hours of employment of young persons in certain unregulated occupations. I understand that the Committee have had before them the results of the investigation by the Manchester University Settlement to which the hon. Member refers. Consideration of the action to be taken must await their Report.