HC Deb 16 November 1976 vol 919 cc525-6W
18. Mr. Hugh Jenkins

asked the Secretary of State for Employment to what factors he attributes the growth in the number of hours worked by a declining labour force; and, if he would prefer more people to be employed working shorter hours, what action he is taking to bring this about.

Mr. Harold Walker

Available evidence does not suggest a significant long-term growth in the number of hours worked by workers in this country, though there may be fluctuations over short periods. Over recent months provisional estimates suggest increases both in numbers of employees and in hours worked in manufacturing industry. The number of hours to be worked in any establishment is a matter for negotiation between management and employees.