HC Deb 23 June 1949 vol 466 c421
6. Mr. Skinnard

asked the Minister of Education whether, in view of the danger to children, he will discourage the installation of metal tumbler switches with easily removable unearthed metal covers in concrete-floored wash-rooms and corridors of new school buildings.

The Minister of Education (Mr. Tomlinson)

Those responsible for providing new school buildings are expected to pay due regard to the British Standards Code of Practice on Electrical Installations, which deals with the matter referred to in my hon. Friend's Question. I have no reason to believe that children are exposed to avoidable risks in their schools. Children may cause injury to themselves by tampering with electrical installations of any kind, but this is a matter which must be left to the care and discipline exercised by teachers.

Mr. Skinnard

If I can show my right hon. Friend cases where I think the regulations have not been adhered to, and where there is danger, particularly to children of infant school age and primary school age, owing to unearthed metal switches, would he ask His Majesty's inspectors to look into the matter?

Mr. Tomlinson

Yes, certainly.