INCREASING the number of hours that children may work at weekends could prove to be a mixed blessing.

Rules which prevented under-16s from doing more than two hours a weekend for cash are to be swept away.

Health Minister John Bowis has issued proposals for a new weekend limit of seven to 10 hours during school term time, according to age.

And there will be a permitted list of jobs suitable for 13-year-olds. These include shop work, car washing, shampooing and sweeping up in hairdressing salons and serving in cafes or restaurants.

Many youngsters will jump at the chance to earn extra pocket money. But they must be protected from exploitation by unscrupulous employers who may be tempted to pay a youngster derisory wages rather than pay a fair salary to adults. Significantly, most of the jobs listed are in traditionally low-paid areas.

Some parents, too, may put pressure on children to work during weekends.

Many people will think that at 13, youngsters should be spending their time catching up on homework and recreation rather than working.

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