HC Deb 14 December 1939 vol 355 cc1254-5
19. Mr. James Griffiths

asked the Home Secretary the reasons for confining the Order applying the silicosis scheme to the slate-quarrying and mining industry to operations underground; is he aware that this restricted application of the scheme will prevent many workers in the industry, disabled by silicosis, from claiming compensation; and whether, having regard to this fact, he will reconsider the matter and make an Order bringing within its scope all operations in the industry?

Sir J. Anderson

The scheme which I have made extends the Various Industries Silicosis Scheme so as to cover any operation underground in slate mines, but I am advised that at present the available evidence is not such as to justify any further extension.

Mr. Griffiths

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there are cases of men who are disabled by silicosis who will be completely outside the Order, and in view of the experience in the mining industry, where we have had Order after Order, will he not reconsider this matter? Further, will men who are disabled by silicosis and who are unemployed because of that fact at the time when the Order comes into force be covered by the Order?

Sir J. Anderson

With regard to the first part of the hon. Gentleman's supplementary question, the matter is really one of evidence, and I have indicated to the Quarrymen's Union that I am perfectly prepared to consider any further evidence that may be brought forward tending to show that there is a definite risk of silicosis in the case of persons employed above ground. On that understanding, the union entirely agreed that it was desirable that the Order already made should come into force on 1st December. With regard to the second part of the question, I would prefer, if I may, not to give a definite answer at the moment, because I am not quite certain of the facts, but I will write to the hon. Gentleman.

Mr. Griffiths

If the union concerned does submit to the right hon. Gentleman evidence that there are cases outside this Order, will he give an undertaking to reconsider the Order?

Sir J. Anderson

Certainly, I will reconsider the whole matter.

Mr. David Grenfell

Will the right hon. Gentleman inquire into the history of the silicosis schemes in the coal mining industry, and, in the light of the long years of delay in giving recognition to the claims of silicosis in the coal mining industry, will he not try to avoid similar difficulty in the slate industry?

Sir J. Anderson

I think the hon. Gentleman will agree that the Home Office have taken a very sympathetic attitude towards this question of silicosis, and I will personally do anything that I can to expedite the matter.

Mr. R. Gibson

Does this scheme cover sandstone quarrying, which is a dangerous industry?

Sir J. Anderson

This deals with slate quarries.