HC Deb 07 April 1927 vol 204 c2278
13. Mr. W. M. ADAMSON

asked the Home Secretary whether grinders' disease in the edge-tool trade is scheduled as an industrial disease; and what Regulations are enforced for fits prevention?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

Silicosis has not been scheduled as an industrial disease under the Workmen's Compensation Act, but I have power to make special schemes under the Act to deal with it, and I am about to make a scheme which will embrace all the metal grinding industries, including the edge-tool trade. As regards prevention, a code of Regulations is in force under the Factory Act. I am sending the hon. Member a copy.

Mr. CECIL WILSON

Will that also include the grinding of ganisters?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

I cannot carry the exact words in my head, but I have seen several deputations in regard to this matter, and I am making a fairly comprehensive Order. Perhaps the hon. Member, after he has seen the Order, will put down another question.

14. Mr. ADAMSON

asked the Home Secretary if he can furnish returns of cases in the edge-tool industry of grinders' disease; and whether he has any record of deaths due to this disease for the past 10 years?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

Statistics of the incidence of this disease in the edge-tool industry are not available. I regret, therefore, that a return of deaths caused by this disease in the industry cannot be furnished, but the hon. Member will find a detailed study of the subject in the Report which was presented to Parliament in 1923.