HC Deb 15 March 1933 vol 275 cc1959-60
31. Mr. HALES

asked the Minister of Transport if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the town of Kettering was in danger of destruction on 14th February when a lorry loaded with high explosives caught fire in the heart of the shopping centre; and, having regard to the fact that this fire was extinguished with the aid of a fire-extinguisher carried on the lorry, will he take steps to make the carrying of fire-extinguishers on all motor vehicles compulsory?

Mr. STANLEY

By an Order of the Secretary of State petrol-driven motor vehicles conveying explosives are required to carry chemical fire-extinguishers. I do not regard the occurrence as a justification for requiring all vehicles to carry fire-extinguishers.

Mr. HALES

If that is the case, why should fire-extinguishers be made compulsory on all omnibuses and public vehicles?

Mr. STANLEY

That does not seem to arise out of the question.

48. Mr. HALES

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he is aware that the Petroleum (Motor Vehicles) Regulation, 1929, providing for the installation of fire-extinguishers in all garages, has never been enforced; and if he will now instruct the Metropolitan Police to take the necessary steps to see that this regulation is observed?

The SECRETARY of STATE for the HOME DEPARTMENT (Sir John Gilmour)

I presume the hon. Member is referring to the requirement that in places to which the regulations apply there shall be kept fire-extinguishing apparatus of a type capable of extinguishing petrol fires, or a supply of sand or other effective means for extinguishing such fires. I have no reason to think that this requirement is not properly observed in the Metropolitan area; but if the hon. Member has any information to the contrary and will forward particulars to me I shall be glad to inquire into the matter.

Mr. HALES

Is my right hon. Friend not aware that in no single instance has any domiciliary visit been made regarding this regulation?