asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what are the circumstances relating to the part-time employment of schoolchildren; whether he is satisfied that county and local authorities are wisely administering provisions in force or if it is proposed to enact a national enforcement measure further to safeguard the health and wellbeing of the children concerned; and if he will make a statement.

The Children and Young Persons Acts restrict the employment of school children, and empower local authorities to make by-laws regulating these matters within the framework of the statute. My experience does not support the suggestion for depriving local authorities of the powers vested in them to make by-laws which require my confirmation.

In view of the fact that most local authorities are subject to pressure from Chambers of Commerce to retain the employment of young children for the purpose of delivering newspapers, etc., will not my right hon. Friend look into the question of amending the Children and Young Persons Acts with a view to putting an end to the pernicious practice of employing juveniles?

Chambers of Commerce are not the only people who exercise pressure on local authorities. The recent submission of new by-laws by local authorities shows me that other influences are equally pertinent.