§ 56. Mr. McENTEEasked the Minister of Transport whether any steps are being taken by his Department to safeguard the health of the drivers of motor vehicles against the danger arising from petrol fumes; and whether he has any information in regard to the effect of petrol fumes on the general health of the public using the streets in the London area?
§ Lieut.-Colonel HEADLAMAs the hon. Member is aware, the possible effect of petrol fumes on the drivers and conductors of motor vehicles was considered incidentally by the Departmental Committee appointed by my right hon. Friend the Home Secretary to inquire into industrial diseases. The second report of this committee has recently been issued. I do not think there is sufficient evidence of injury to the health of drivers of motor vehicles or of other users of the road from exhaust fumes to justify legislative action. Defects in exhaust pipes are looked for by the examiners in the examination of omnibuses and motor coaches, and similar defects in goods vehicles will come under the observation of examiners when occasion arises for the 28 inspection of such vehicles under the provisions of the Road and Rail Traffic Act, 1933.
§ Mr. McENTEEIs any regular research taking place into the effects on the public health, and has the hon. and gallant Gentleman seen a statement issued by a number of highly qualified medical men that it has a serious effect on health?
§ Lieut.-Colonel HEADLAMThe matter is under close observation. I have seen some suggestions by doctors, but they are very various in their opinions.