HC Deb 28 July 1938 vol 338 cc3278-9
27. Mr. Thorne

asked the Home Secretary whether he can give any information in reference to a boy eight years old, who was killed at Mattersey Hill Farm, Ret-ford, on Saturday last; and whether the shafting working a water pump was protected?

Sir S. Hoare

These farm premises are outside the scope of the Factory Acts, but the Coroner invited one of the factory inspectors to assist at the inquest. The unfortunate boy appears to have climbed into a granary, the door of which was locked, by means of a rope, and to have become entangled in some belting connected with a revolving shaft. The shaft, which was working a water pump, was not protected by fencing. The verdict was death by misadventure.

Mr. Bellenger

As this has not been the only accident of this kind to occur in my constituency, may I ask whether it is not possible to ensure, under the Factory Acts or by some other means, that machinery of this nature is adequately protected?

Sir S. Hoare

My responsibility is under the Factory Acts and I understand that this case does not come under the Factory Acts. If the hon. Member has any further questions to ask about it, I think they should be addressed to some other Department.

Mr. R. Gibson

In view of the fact that there was an inspector from the right hon. Gentleman's Department there, has not the Home Secretary since entered into communication with the Minister of Agriculture on this matter?