§ 77. Mr. MAXTONasked the Secretary for Scotland if his attention has been called to the fatal accident at Gretna munition factory to a young man, Reginald Purcell, employed there by Messrs. Jackson and Company, the contractors, dismantling the machinery; if a fatal accidents inquiry will be held; and if he will institute special inquiries as to how this work is being carried out?
§ Sir J. GILMOURMy attention had not previously been drawn to this case. A public inquiry under the Fatal Accidents Inquiry (Scotland) Act, 1895, will be held at Dumfries on 9th April. In these circumstances I do not think that a special inquiry such as the hon. Member suggests is necessary, even if it were within my province to order one.
§ Mr. MAXTONIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that this firm got the contract on very favourable terms such as would enable them to make provision for the safety of the workers engaged on the work, and will he make some inquiry in order to see whether this contract in connection with Government property is being put through with reasonable safeguards for the lives of the men?
§ Sir J. GILMOURI think the whole of the facts will come out in the inquiry which is to be held.