HC Deb 31 October 1929 vol 231 cc314-5
37. Mr. HOLLINS

asked the Home Secretary the date when he proposes to make an order to extend the present Various Industries (Silicosis) Order so as to make provision for the payment of compensation in the case of partial incapacity due to silicosis?

Mr. CLYNES

I am anxious to provide for the partial disablement cases as soon as practicable, but adequate medical arrangements must first be made. As my hon. Friend is aware, this difficult question has been under investigation by a Departmental Committee. The Committee has now reported, and a copy of the Report has been laid before Parliament. I concur generally in the arrangements recommended, but I am advised that they cannot be given effect to without further legislation. I am accordingly considering an amending Bill, which I hope may be introduced and passed into law during the present Session.

38. Mr. HOLLINS

asked the Home Secretary if he is aware of the abnormal number of cases of silicosis in the pottery industry for which compensation has been paid since 1st February last, when the Various Industries (Silicosis) Order came into operation; and whether, in view of the serious nature of the incidence of silicosis amongst pottery workers, he will appoint a committee of inquiry to consider and report as to amendments to the present lead and dust regulations required to give adequate protection to the health of the workers engaged in the pottery industry?

Mr. CLYNES

A certain number of cases have come to the notice of the Department, but I have no complete figures. As my hon. Friend knows, the question of further preventive measures was very carefully investigated in 1927 to 1928 by a Departmental Committee (of which he was a member), which recommended various additional precautions, including periodic medical examinations in some of the most dangerous processes. It is intended to give effect generally to the proposals of the Committee, but I am not sure how far it may be practicable or desirable to attempt to deal with the subject pending the establishment of the new medical arrangements to which I referred in my reply to the last question. So far as I am aware, there is no need for the appointment of any further committee.

Mr. HOLLINS

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the two employers' representatives left the Committee which reported in July, 1928. They are now, I understand, in a rather better frame of mind. Is it not necessary, in the light of the new experience we now have since last February, that it should be reappointed, or a new committee appointed?

Mr. CLYNES

I welcome that information.