17. Mr. ROWLANDasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he received a report of the inquest held at Crayford on 8th January in connection with the death from dope poisoning of a young woman employed in varnishing the wings of aeroplanes; whether any similar cases have occurred; and whether measures have been successfully taken to ensure the safety of the workers using dope?
§ The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for the HOME DEPARTMENT (Mr. Cecil Harmsworth)Several cases of this poisoning occurred at one or two aircraft factories towards the end of last year, and, at the Home Secretary's request, a full investigation was made by Dr. Willcox, Senior Analyst to the Home Office, and Dr. Legge, Medical Inspector of Factories. Their inquiries showed that the poisoning was caused by the fumes given off by the varnish, and could be prevented by the installation of a suitable system of ventilation, which would effectually carry off the fumes. Steps were immediately taken, in concert with the Admiralty and the War Office, to secure the provision of effective means of ventilation in every aircraft factory where the dope is being used, and there is every reason to believe that these measures will be successful. No further case of poisoning has been reported since the one referred to by my hon. Friend.
§ Mr. ROWLANDSAre the authorities thoroughly well satisfied that the precautions taken will secure the safety of the lives of those engaged in this occupation of varnishing, and will there be an Official Report of the examination and inquiry?
§ Mr. HARMSWORTHI understand that the authorities are thoroughly satisfied with the precautions now being taken.