§ Mr. WARDLEasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he is aware that in Germany there are permanent exhibitions of appliances for the 229 prevention of accidents to workmen; and whether, in view of the number of accidents which occur annually in this country to workers engaged in the manipulation of machinery, in the working of railways, and in seafaring, he will consider whether such an exhibition of safety appliances can be established in this country?
§ Mr. GLADSTONEThe question of the establishment of an exhibition of safety appliances has been under my consideration for some time, and inquiry has been made with regard to similar exhibitions in Germany and elsewhere. Owing, however, to the large additional expenditure in connection with the factory department entailed by the recent additions to the inspecting staff, it has not been found possible to proceed further with the project at present, but I hope before long to be able to take some steps in this direction, so far as the matter comes within the jurisdiction of my Department.