R
En Clair
OUTWARD TELEGRAM
FROM THE COMMONWEALTH OFFICE
(The Secretary of State)
TO HONG KONG (Sir D. Trench)
HWB 18/6
33
Sent 31st March 1967. 00.35 hrs.
PRIORITY No.638
My immediately preceding telegram.
Following is text of Questions and Answers:
Begins.
Hong Kong
20. Mr. Rankin asked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Affairs what consultations he has had with the Governor in order to improve the conditions and hours of work of women and children in Hong Kong.
Mr. Bowden: During my recent visit to Hong Kong I discussed with the Governor the subject of hours of work of women and young persons. He has amending legislation under consideration.
Mr. Rankin: Is my right hon. Friend aware that women and children in Hong Kong are liable to work a maximum legal week of 60 hours, plus overtime? Can my right hon. Friend assure us that the amending legislation proposed by the Governor will terminate this state of affairs?
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Mr. Bowden: I am aware that under the existing regulation what my hon Friend has said is quite right, It is possible for young people above the age of 16, and also women, to work a 60-hour week. In fact, however, a considerable number I cannot give the actual percentage work an eight-hour shift, because many factories and I have visited one or two work three shifts in 24 hours. The Governor is looking into the question of an alteration of the regulation, and the question is under urgent discussion.
Dame Irene Ward: Can the Minister tell us when the amending legislation will be made into permanent legislation?
Mr. Bowden: At the moment this is a matter for consultation between the Governor, the Legislative Council and industry in Hong Kong.
Ends.
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