§ 33. Mr. BECKERasked the Home Secretary if he is aware that a celluloid factory has been established in Townshend Terrace, Richmond; if his Department has given its authority for this; is he aware that there is strong local feeling owing to the inflammable nature of celluloid and the propinquity of many houses; and will he take steps to have this celluloid factory removed to a safer place?
Mr. HENDERSONAbout a year ago the town council asked the Home Office to intervene to prevent the establishment of this factory, and were informed in reply that the Home Office had no power to approve or disapprove of the premises being used for the purposes mentioned. I am advised that I have no power to order the removal of the factory as suggested, or otherwise intervene. Precautions to prevent fires are contained in the Regulations made under the Factory Act for the protection of persons employed in celluloid factories, and I may also draw the attention of the hon. Member to the provisions for securing the safety 1586 of persons in adjoining buildings contained in Section 1 of the Celluloid and Cinematograph Film Act, 1922, the enforcement of which rests with the local authority.
§ Mr. BECKERIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that there are houses all round this celluloid factory, that there is great public fear of a fire at any moment, and cannot something be done?