HC Deb 30 July 1946 vol 426 cc120-1W
24. Mr. Garry Allighan

asked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that unemployed men are being sent by the Gravesend employment exchange to jobs at the Empire Paper Mills, Greenhithe, where they have to work 12-hour shifts to make up a 70-hour week; whether he is satisfied that such conditions of employment are suitable; and whether men are permitted to refuse such work.

Mr. Ness Edwards

Yes, Sir; although I understand the hours are in fact 66 per week on the day shift for which they arc paid 70 hours, and 60 per week on the night shift for which they are paid 66 hours. Thirty-eight men have been placed with this firm in the last three months, and I am informed that there have been no cases in which men have refused to be submitted.