HC Deb 02 March 1938 vol 332 cc1115-6
83. Miss Wilkinson

asked the Home Secretary whether he has now received a report as to the cause of the explosion at the British Oxygen Company's works at Jarrow; if so, whether he will state the cause and, in view of the great anxiety of the people living near, is he satisfied that such explosive work can safely be carried on so near to dwelling-houses; and what special safeguards are being imposed for the future?

Mr. Lloyd

The investigation of the circumstances of this accident has not yet been completed, and I am not at present in a position to make a statement as to the original cause. It is, however, known that the explosions which occurred in the compressing room of the factory were the result of a fire which spread from the original ignition; and it is proposed to require the provision of certain additional mechanical safeguards which would prevent the spread of such fires on any future occasion. It is the opinion of my right hon. Friend's advisers that, subject to the provision of these additional safeguards, the processes in question could be continued on the present site without any substantial risk.

Miss Wilkinson

Has the Under-Secretary received any report regarding the quite heroic conduct of the police in Jarrow at that time?

Mr. Lloyd

Yes, Sir. Both the police and the fire brigade behaved with very great courage, and in particular the chief of the fire brigade who stopped his own men from going into the compressing room and himself went in, in circumstances of very great danger.

Miss Wilkinson

Is the Home Secretary convinced that, if the additional safeguards are undertaken by the company concerned, it will be safe for this industry to be carried on near to dwelling houses?

Mr. Lloyd

It is not possible, of course, to say that no accident will ever occur in processes of this kind, but I think my answer was reassuring to a very considerable extent. Although there may be a certain amount of confusion locally at the present time, and very naturally, I believe that when the advice of the technical experts becomes known the problem will be solved.