HC Deb 10 December 1931 vol 260 c2032
25. Mr. J. JONES

asked the Home Secretary if he will state the number of workpeople engaged in the asbestos industry who have been examined by members of the medical board; the number of workpeople found to be suffering from asbestosis; and the number of workpeople suspended from work in the industry by the medical board?

Sir H. SAMUEL

582 workers have been so far examined by the Board, three have been found to be suffering from asbestosis, of whom one has been certified to be totally disabled and two have been suspended. In addition one worker has been suspended on account of tuberculosis and one on account of defective physique, making a total of four workers who have been suspended. In 77 of the cases examined the board are awaiting the result of a radiological examination and have come to no conclusion.

Mr. JONES

What provision is being made for those cases which have been accepted under existing conditions?

Sir H. SAMUEL

Perhaps my hon. Friend will give me notice of that question. It does not arise here.

Lieut.-Colonel FREMANTLE

Are those the figures for one year?

Sir H. SAMUEL

They are for the period since this Measure came into force, which I believe was last June.