HC Deb 22 October 1942 vol 383 cc2113-4W
Mr. E. Smith

asked the Minister of Labour whether his attention has been called to the deputy chief inspector's contribution to the annual report of the Chief Inspector of Factories for 1941, and, in particular, to the need for a restriction of the hours of employment and the need for more shift working; and what action is to be taken?

Mr. McCorquodale

As indicated in the report, hours of women and young persons in factories are closely controlled. The further restriction of hours by the introduction of shift systems, etc., is conditioned by various considerations, the chief of these being the availability of additional labour. The position, however, is constantly under review.

Mr. Smith

asked the Minister of Labour whether his attention has been directed to pages 19, 21 and 22 of the Chief Inspector's annual report on factories for 1941; and what action is it intended to take, in particular with respect to works medical officers and the need for more preventive steps to avoid industrial diseases?

Mr. McCorquodale

As pointed out on page 22 of the report, medical supervision in factories has made progress in spite of the difficulties due to other claims on the medical profession; and, while regard must be had to those claims, the Department will continue to press for the appointment of whole or part-time works medical officers in appropriate cases. Action of one kind or another is constantly being taken to prevent industrial diseases, but it is too detailed and varied in character to be described within the scope of an answer to a Parliamentary Question.

Mr. Smith

asked the Minister of Labour whether, in view of the constant criticism about absenteeism, he will direct public attention to pages 17 and 18 of the annual report of the Chief Inspector of Factories for 1941 where tribute is paid to the workpeople?

Mr. McCorqudale

This passage in the Chief Inspector's report has already been widely referred to in the Press and it is also quoted in the pamphlet on absenteeism which will be issued by the Department within a few days.