HC Deb 05 October 1909 vol 11 c1829
Mr. CHARLES DUNCAN

asked the right hon. Gentleman what was the number of cases of lead poisoning during 1908 in the Swansea district in the spelter, lead, and silver works; whether such cases are on the increase; and, if so, whether any additional safeguards are to be introduced with a view to the prevention, as far as possible, of such cases in the future?

Mr. GLADSTONE

The number of cases in 1908 was 38, as compared with nine in 1907; but in the first eight months of this year there were 24 cases, as compared with 28 in the corresponding period of 1908. A special inquiry has been made by one of the medical inspectors of factories in regard to lead smelting and certain allied industries, and his report, which includes recommendations for further precautions, has just been received, and is under consideration.