§ 39. Mr. Wakefieldasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he will give an assurance that it is not intended to put the new Order with regard to fireguards into operation before an opportunity has been given for a discussion in the House?
§ The Secretary of State for the Home Department (Mr. Herbert Morrison)would invite my hon. Friend's attention to the statement which I made during the recent Debate on Statutory Rules and Orders. I indicated that sympathetic consideration would be given as regards Parliamentary time for a Debate on important subordinate Orders, if it is shown by a substantial number of hon. Members that they wish it. The Fire Prevention Orders are undoubtedly of importance both on account of their object and the number of people they affect. But the principle of compulsory fireguard duty has been accepted without serious question for two and a half years. The new Orders, besides consolidating a number of much amended Orders, will introduce modifications shown by experience to be necessary. These have been the subject of full discussion with all the various interests involved, including the trades union and employers' organisations, and it is generally agreed that they will represent a substantial improvement on the existing Orders.