HC Deb 25 June 1935 vol 303 cc938-9
37. Mr. THORNE

asked the Home Secretary whether he has received a report from his factory inspector in connection with the explosions that took place at the works of the British Oxygen Company, Crewe, on 16th June; whether he can state the cause of the accident and the amount of damage done, both inside and outside of the factory; and how many people were injured?

Sir J. SIMON

I presume the hon. Member refers to the accident which occurred at this factory on the 15th June. The matter is under investigation by the Chief Inspector of Explosives, and it is not possible yet to say what was the cause of the original explosion. Considerable damage was done to the building in which the explosion occurred and superficial damage to a number of houses in the adjacent street. One workman was injured and, I regret to say, has since died. There were no other casualties.

Viscountess ASTOR

Is the right hon. Gentleman convinced that we have enough factory inspectors; and will he bear in mind that we reduced the number some years ago?

Sir J. SIMON

That is a large question, and I should not like to deal with it, in answer to a supplementary question, but I shall certainly look into it.