asked the Minister of Labour what has been the response from industry and the trade unions to the Government's request for staggering working hours.

Very good, Sir.

Can the right hon. Gentleman say what percentage of industry has in fact agreed to staggered hours?

No, Sir, I could not answer that without notice, and even with notice it would be very difficult to give the percentage; but I can say that the answer I have given covers the matter. We have had a very good response from industry.

How can the right hon. Gentleman say "very good" when he cannot give the percentage of the number of industries which have in fact responded? Would he answer that?

I gave the answer which I did give because I know it is correct, but it is another question to hive the percentages.