§ 43. Mr. THORNEasked the Home Secretary whether he has received a report from his factory inspector in connection with the death of a 15 years old 1584 boy who was trapped in a lift at a block of flats at Princess Court, Queen's Road, Bayswater, London; whether the lift was automatically controlled and in proper working order; who is responsible for the inspection and examination of such lifts; if he is aware that the boy's mother was dependent on his earnings; and whether adequate compensation will be paid?
§ Sir J. GILMOURThere are no powers under the Factory Acts to require safety precautions on lifts at residential and office premises, nor is there any statutory provision for the inspection of such lifts, though I understand that they are in many cases inspected by insurance companies or the makers. I am exploring the situation and will make inquiries as to this particular accident.
§ Mr. THORNEDo I understand that, as a matter of fact, no one is responsible for the inspection of lifts in blocks of flats except the insurance companies? Have not any of the local authorities' inspectors power to find out whether there are any defects in these lifts?
§ Sir J. GILMOURThere are no powers under the Factory Acts.
§ Mr. RHYS DAVIESIn view of the fact that there is a great increase in the use of lifts consequent upon the taller buildings that are being erected, will the right hon. Gentleman be good enough to go into this question to see whether we cannot have them brought under the Factory Acts?
§ Sir J. GILMOURI will consider that suggestion.