HC Deb 12 August 1913 vol 56 cc2245-6
40. Mr. W. THORNE

asked the Home Secretary whether his attention has been called to three men being killed at the West Ham Gasworks on Friday last, 1st August, in consequence of the painting cradle falling through a rotten rope being; used; if he is aware that the coroner stated that he hoped the factory inspectors who were present at the inquest would recommend a better system of testing the ropes; and if he is prepared to grant powers to local authorities to enable the local inspectors to examine ropes attached to all such painting cradles and to inspect the chains attached to such; Scotch derricks and cranes?

Mr. ELLIS GRIFFITH

My right hon. Friend has received a Report on the circumstances of the accident and the proceedings at the inquest. The coroner appears to have said that it was within the province of the inspectors to recommend the making of regulations for bringing about a better system of testing ropes; but the painting of buildings is not, as such, within the Factory Act, and further powers must be given by legislation if the Home Office is to deal with the matter. The provisions of the Buildings Bill, which is in draft, would enable regulations to be made as to the precautions to be observed in connection with cradle ropes, and the matter will be considered when the Bill passes. I should point out, however, that the Building Accidents Committee had this point before them, but did not recommend the testing of ropes in use, and it is doubtful whether any system of testing which might be likely to accentuate a latent defect would be desirable.

Mr. J. WARD

Why does the hon. Gentleman refer to a Bill which' the Government have not even taken the trouble to introduce at all this Session?

Mr. W. THORNE

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that hundreds of these cradles are in use in connection with gas holders, schools, and so forth?

Mr. ELLIS GRIFFITH

I tried to explain to my hon. Friend that legislation is required before the Home Office inspectors can have control over this class of work.

Mr. W. THORNE

Is it intended to introduce legislation next Session to deal with the subject?

Mr. ELLIS GRIFFITH

I cannot pledge the Government on a matter of that sort.

Mr. W. THORNE

I will remind you next Session then.