§ 58. Lieut.-Colonel Sir Thomas Mooreasked the Home Secretary whether he has any statement to make in regard to the recent explosion at Ardeer and its fatal results?
§ Sir S. HoareI much regret to say that six persons lost their lives in the explosion which occurred at the factory of Nobel's Explosives Company at Ardeer on 27th January, and 26 persons received injuries, though most of these were able to return to work next day. The circumstances of the accident are under investigation by one of the Inspectors of Explosives, and will, no doubt, also be the subject of an inquiry under the Fatal Accidents Inquiries (Scotland) Acts. My hon. and gallant Friend will, I am sure, agree that it would not be desirable for me to make any further statement in the matter pending the results of these inquiries.
§ Mr. GallacherIn view of the discussion that we had on this question of Ardeer on the Factories Act, will the Home Secretary give special attention to whatever results come from the inquiry, in order to see whether it is necessary in any way to alter what was provided in the Act?
§ Sir S. HoareCertainly I will give special attention to the findings of the inquiry.
§ Colonel Sir Charles MacAndrewWill the right hon. Gentleman do all he can to expedite the report, in view of the anxiety that exists around Ardeer?
§ Sir S. HoareI will do all I can.
§ Mr. McGovernIs it not time that these factories were being erected in the heart of the country, where there would be no danger to the civil population?
§ Sir S. HoareThat is a more general question, which does not seem to arise specifically on this.
§ Mr. KirkwoodIs everything being done that science can do to obviate these terrible disasters? This is not the first that has happened in Ardeer. It is becoming common?
§ Sir S. HoareWe are certainly doing everything we can to prevent accidents of this kind, and I can assure the hon. Member that I will give very special attention to the report of the inquiry and see whether any further action is necessary.