§ 8. Colonel DAYasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he is aware that sacks containing 224 lbs. and 336 lbs. are man-handled by dock workers; and will he consider Regulations having as their object a maximum weight in respect of sacks that have to be so handled?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for the HOME DEPARTMENT (Sir William Joynson-Hicks)This matter was carefully investigated by the Factory Department two or three years ago. The reports showed that the workers handle sacks of the weights mentioned in the question, though it would seem that sacks as heavy as 336 lbs. are only occasionally handled, and that in such cases two or more workers are usually employed. The inquiry did not disclose any evidence of injury to health such as would justify me in issuing Regulations under the Factory Act, but if the hon. Member has any definite evidence on this point, and will forward it to me, I will, of course, consider it.