§ 38. Sir Harvie Wattasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he is now in a position to make a further statement on the action which is being taken as a result of the report by Mr. Alfred J. Long, K.C., on the inquiry into the fire at the premises of Messrs. Harris and Co., Ltd., in Richmond, on 4th September, 1947. when six people lost their lives.
§ Mr. EdeAs I informed my hon. Friend, the Member for West Bermondsey (Mr. Sargood), on 8th July last, I consulted the Minister of Labour and National Service on the general problem raised in this Report. As a result I have appointed officers of my Department and of the Ministry, and one or two officers of local authorities, to consider the Report and to enquire into and report upon the suitability, or need for amendment, of the existing Regulations under the Factory Acts and the Cinematograph and Celluloid Film Act, 1922, which govern the storage of celluloid.
Sir H. WattWhile thanking the right hon. Gentleman for that reply, may I ask him if he can say what substances are being stored in these premises now, and if there is a danger of the recurrence of fire?
§ Mr. EdeI could not say without notice, but if the hon. Gentleman will put down a Question, I will have inquiry made and supply him with an answer or, if he likes to pursue it privately, I will get the information for him.