§ 29. Mr. Ellis Smithasked the Home Secretary whether consideration has been, or will be given, to the report of the International Labour Office entitled "Studies and Reports, Series F (Industrial Hygiene), No. 17," and the proceedings of the International Conference, held in Geneva from 29th August to 9th September, 1938, on the question of silicosis; and what action is it proposed to take on the report?
§ Sir J. AndersonThis was a round-table conference of medical experts, including British representatives, and their conclusions are for the most part in the nature of scientific findings rather than recommendations for action. I am advised that, in so far as they contain suggestions as to methods of diagnosis of the disease, methods of dust investigation and means of prevention, the arrangements in this country are broadly speaking, and indeed already were at the time of the report, in conformity with the views expressed in the report.
§ Sir Francis FremantleHas not the medical staff of the Home Office been transferred to the Ministry of Labour, and has the responsibility for dealing with silicosis been transferred to that Ministry?
§ Sir J. AndersonNo, Sir; what has been transferred to the Ministry of Labour is the Factory Department only.
§ 30. Mr. E. Smithasked the Home Secretary, in view of the fact that substantial agreement has been reached regarding the general pathological conception of silicosis, as shown by the report of the International Labour Office, "Studies and Reports, Series F (Industrial Hygiene), No. 17," what steps are being taken to see that early diagnosis is made among miners, pottery workers and asbestos workers in particular, in order to prevent the long-suffering and steady deterioration of the affected people's physique; and is it intended to improve the compenstion arrangements?
§ Sir J. AndersonProvision is made in the Silicosis and Asbestosis (Medical Arrangements) Scheme for periodic examinations of workmen in ganister mines and in silica processes in the pottery and asbestos industries with a view to the early detection of the disease and, except in certain cases where undue hardship might result, for the removal from these processes of workers found to be affected by it. As regards coalmines, the question was investigated by the Royal Commission on Safety in Coalmines, but for the reasons set out on pages 468 and 469 of their report, the Commission did not feel at that time that they could usefully recommend the institution of such examinations in the case of persons employed in coalmines.
§ Sir F. FremantleWhat arrangements have been made at the Home Office to get medical opinion if the medical service of the Home Office has been transferred to the factory inspection department?
§ Sir J. AndersonMy hon. Friend can be assured that adequate arrangements have been made. If he puts a Question down, I will give him a full reply.