§ 97. Mr. Blackburnasked the Minister of Fuel and Power whether the Government will take steps, in consultation with the National Coal Board and the National Union of Mineworkers, to ensure that where a sufficient number of miners in a pit volunteer to work more than the five consecutive shifts stipulated in the five-day week agreement, they are enabled to do so, specially rewarded for doing so and suitably thanked for their patriotism in the national emergency.
§ Mr. GaitskellThe agreement on the five-day week was reached after negotiation between the National Coal Board and the National Union of Mineworkers. If any substantial body of miners wished to work more than five consecutive shifts each week it would be for them to approach their union in the first instance. It would be ultimately for the National Coal Board to decide after consultation with the National Union of Mineworkers whether, with the cycle of operation adjusted to five day working, this is practicable or desirable in the interests of production.