§ 54. Mr. ROBERT YOUNGasked the Minister of Health whether any inquiries have been made by his Department, and, if not, will he cause inquiries to be made, regarding the nature of the gas produced in and emitted into the atmosphere by artificial silk works; whether he is aware that this gas is said to be poisonous and that the irritation produced by it is sufficient to cause pneumonia in young children; and that in some areas adjacent to such works doors and windows have to be kept closed because of the gas fumes?
§ Sir K. WOODMy right hon. Friend understands there have been cases of emission of unpleasant gases from some works, but he is not aware of any injury to the health of residents in the neighbourhood of the works. My right hon. Friend is, however, having further investigation made and, if the hon. Member has any information, I shall be glad if he will send it to my Department.
§ Mr. MAXTONCan the right hon. Gentleman tell us why the Government ask private Members to give them information about this artificial silk industry, and why the Government themselves are afraid to have the necessary investigations into the internal affairs of the industry?
§ Sir K. WOODI do not think that the hon. Gentleman heard my reply. I said that the Government were having an investigation, and I also said that if any Member had any information they would be glad to receive it.
§ Mr. KELLYCan the right hon. Gentleman indicate when they are likely to be ready to give a report to this House on the result of their inquiries?
§ Sir K. WOODNo, Sir.