HC Deb 18 April 1940 vol 359 cc1107-8
40. Mr. Rhys Davies

asked the Home Secretary whether, in view of the many changes in factory life brought about by the emergency, he will issue the annual report of the Chief Inspector of Factories this year, before the end of June?

Sir J. Anderson

The Chief Inspector of Factories is anxious to issue this report as early as he can, but I regret that it is not possible to promise that it will be ready before the end of June. Work on the preparation of the report cannot be given precedence over other urgent duties, including duties connected with the war.

Mr. Davies

Is not the right hon. Gentleman aware that every year there is great difficulty about this report, and that this is about the only report of a Government Department that is not issued in time?

Sir J. Anderson

I can assure the hon. Member that we are doing our best to get the report out.

Viscountess Astor

Is it not true that if we ask unnecessary questions about factories, it takes the inspectors off their job, and really defeats the very object we have in mind?