§ 57. Mr. DENNISONasked the Home Secretary if the five-ton derrick crane which collapsed in Waterloo Place, Pall Mall, on 26th March, was tested on the site; if so, when and by whom; what was the nature of the test; and whether, in view of the comparative frequency of similar types of accidents during the erection of buildings, he proposes to introduce regulations which may prevent their recurrence?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSSo far as I have been able to ascertain no special test was made on the site, but the investigation is not completed. Draft Regulations are being discussed at the present time with the building industry and include a requirement regarding the examination of cranes, but on the information at present available it is not clear that this accident could have been prevented by such examination.
§ Mr. DENNISONMay I assume that the Department has been making inquiries into these accidents for the past two years; and may we expect a report on the subject at an early date?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSYes; I think if the hon. Member will put down a question next week I may be able to give him some information.