HC Deb 05 June 1930 vol 239 cc2360-1
32. Mr. GOULD

asked the Home Secretary whether he has now received any report respecting his investigations in certain London boroughs arising out of the report prepared by Dr. A. D. Denning; and what steps he proposes to take regarding it?

Mr. CLYNES

I have now received a report which covers 57 factories and workshops, including all classes and sizes of works, and give a detailed particulars as to the actual conditions. Its general effect is to confirm the opinion previously expressed that Dr. Denning's report gives a very exaggerated account. While poor or bad conditions were found in some half-dozen cases about one-half of the whole number are definitely reported as good and the remainder reached on the whole a satisfactory standard. Action has already been or is being taken to bring the conditions in every case into conformity with the Act, and I propose to call for a further report in due course as to the results of this action. I also propose to communicate a copy of the report to the Joint Committee of the Industry for whom Dr. Denning's report was prepared, and shall be glad to consider any observations they may wish to make.

Mr. GOULD

Will that report be available to Members of this House?

Mr. CLYNES

I think that the report would not be of general or permanent interest, but I will consider whether it can be made available to Members.

57. Mr. GOULD

asked the Minister of Health whether any steps have been taken to investigate the insanitary conditions, as revealed in the report of Mr. A. D. Denning, respecting certain London boroughs; whether the medical officer of health has been consulted thereon; and what reports, if any, have been received?

The MINISTER of HEALTH (Mr. Arthur Greenwood)

I assume that the report to which my hon. Friend refers is that on shoe manufacturing in the East End area which was prepared for the Federation of Boot and Shoe Manufacturers and the National Union of Boot and Shoe Operatives. I am not aware whether copies of this report have been furnished to the medical officers of health of the boroughs included in this area. The administration of the Factory and Workshop Acts is a matter for the Secretary of State for Home Affairs, and I understand that my right hon. Friend has directed certain inquiries to be made in the matter to which the report relates.