HC Deb 05 December 1935 vol 307 cc278-9
21. Mr. RHYS DAVIES

asked the Home Secretary whether any progress has been made towards establishing a fund out of which compensation may be paid to those textile operatives who are incapacitated from following their employment consequent upon inhaling dust in card rooms?

The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for the HOME DEPARTMENT (Mr. Geoffrey Lloyd)

As the hon. Member is no doubt aware, this problem has been under consideration by a committee of employers and workers. My right hon. Friend made inquiry a few weeks ago and was informed that the Employers' Federation were about to consider a report from one of their representatives on the Committee. I will inquire as to how the matter now stands and communicate the result to the hon. Member.

Mr. DAVIES

In view of the fact that this problem has been under consideration for such a long time and that there are so many operatives suffering from the effects of this dust, will the Home Office be good enough to expedite this matter?

Mr. LLOYD

My right hon. Friend earnestly hopes that the Committee will reach an early decision and will be fully prepared to use his good offices in that direction.

Mr. SILVERMAN

Is there any good reason why the incapacity referred to in the question should not be made an industrial disease under the workmen's compensation legislation?

Mr. LLOYD

I think we must await the result of the Committee's investigation.