HC Deb 08 November 1928 vol 222 cc203-4
24. Mr. KELLY

asked the Home Secretary whether any Reports have recently been made as to the health conditions of the employés at the Celta Silk Mills, Peterborough, and as to the provision of welfare supervision for men and women at these mills?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

These mills were visited in May and August last and the Inspectors report that the health conditions generally and the welfare arrangements were good.

Mr. KELLY

Has the attention of the Home Secretary been drawn to the many cases of illness during that period which have had to have hospital treatment because of the industry, and is a woman welfare supervisor employed to give attention to women who meet with injuries in the factory?

Viscountess ASTOR

Seeing that we cannot pass the Factories Bill this Session, will the right hon. Gentleman see that we have increased factory inspections and workshop inspections? Will he increase them until the time when we can pass the Factories Bill?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

My Noble Friend raises a large question; she knows that I am trying to increase the factory inspectorate. With regard to the point raised by the hon. Member for Rochdale (Mr. Kelly), of course, I cannot tell him without inquiry, but on the whole the factory is satisfactory; if, however, he has any definite information to the contrary, and will give it to me, I will call for a further report.