§ 42. Mr. DAYasked the Home Secretary whether his officers on inspectors have made a report on the containers or compressed steel bottles used for supplying liquid gas in bulk to consumers; will he give the results; and whether his Department has approved the distribution of this type of gas?
§ Sir J. SIMONI presume that the hon. Member has in mind the gas known as butane, which I understand is being supplied for domestic use in certain parts of the country. Approval to the distribution of this type of gas is not required, but the position in relation to the vessels in which the gas is supplied is under investigation by the Chief Inspector of Explosives. When his inquiries are completed the question of making certain regulations applicable to these vessels will be promptly considered. In the meantime such steps as are possible are being taken to secure that the vessels comply with the necessary standards of safety.
§ Mr. DAYWill the right hon. Gentleman consider, when these Regulations are made, seeing whether the vessels or containers are small so that they can be utilised in working-class houses?
§ Sir J. SIMONI ant not sure that the considerations which my Department has to bear in mind and apply have to do with that aspect of the matter. The Department is primarily concerned in seeing that the containers are safe and will not explode, but I will bear in mind what the hon. Member says and make inquiry.