HC Deb 04 April 1911 vol 23 cc2001-2
Mr. HILLS

asked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that fifteen cases of lead-poisoning occurred in the china and earthernware trade in the first two months of 1911 against eight in the same period of 1910; whether the report of the principal chemist of the Government Laboratory for 1910 called attention to the fact that samples of glaze taken from works where lead-poisoning occurred contained lead oxide in proportions varying from 12.6 to 47.5 per cent.; and what action he intends to take?

Mr. CHURCHILL

I am aware of the increase in the number of reported cases, which coincides with increased activity in the trade, and also of the results of the analyses referred to which were undertaken by the Government Laboratory for the Home Office. As the hon. Member is no doubt aware, the whole question has been the subject of an exhaustive inquiry by a representative committee, and I am proposing to take steps to give effect to their recommendations.