HC Deb 26 March 1913 vol 50 cc1639-40
61. Lord HUGH CECIL

asked whether the tests for defective colour vision approved by the Board of Trade differ from those approved by the Admiralty; and, if so, whether the Board of Trade, in view of recent scientific investigation and discussion, intend to adopt the tests now approved by the Admiralty?

Mr. ROBERTSON

The colour vision tests in force for the mercantile marine are not identical with those approved by the Admiralty. As the Noble Lord is doubtless aware, a Departmental Committee, including a number of eminent scientific men, has recently considered the sight tests for the mercantile marine, and the recommendations of the Committee have been generally adopted. The new tests based on their recommendations will come into force on April 1st.

Mr. PETO

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the apparatus in use for testing defective color vision in the Admiralty is the same as that which is used by the principal railway companies in this country, and also in Germany, and if he persists in the colour tests contemplated by the Board of Trade the system will be practically unique, not only in this country but in the most scientifically advanced countries in Europe?

Mr. ROBERTSON

So far as I am aware the Report of the Departmental Committee I have mentioned is the latest scientific investigation. I may refer the hon. Member to the names of the eminent scientific men on that Committee.

Lord HUGH CECIL

Is it not true that at any rate some of the gentlemen on that Committee have long held strong and partisan opinions, if I may use such an expression, on this question of colour vision tests, and therefore are not impartial guides in a matter of this kind?

Mr. ROBERTSON

I am not aware that that is so. There are at least half a dozen scientific men on the Committee, and possibly some of them may be committed to some old opinions.

Sir F. BANBURY

Can the hon. Gentleman give any reason for having a different test to that employed by the Admiralty?

Mr. ROBERTSON

This Committee was appointed to give us the best scientific advice they could give to the Board of Trade, and it was decided to follow that advice.