HC Deb 03 April 1951 vol 486 cc14-5
23. Mr. J. R. Bevins

asked the Minister of Labour whether his attention has been drawn to the five recent fatal accidents arising out of demolition work in the main shopping area of Liverpool; and what steps have been taken by the factory inspectorate to ensure compliance with the Building (Safety, Health and Welfare) Regulations, 1948.

Mr. Lee

Four fatalities caused by accidents during the course of demolition work in Liverpool have recently been reported to me. The firm of contractors responsible for the first of these accidents involving two deaths was prosecuted and fined £100 on 29th March. Proceedings are contemplated in respect of the second accident which, like the first, involved two fatalities.

Mr. Bevins

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that since this Question was put down there has been a further serious accident on one of these sites? Will he take steps to tighten up the enforcement of the building regulations in crowded city districts?

Mr. Lee

I am aware that there has been another accident since the hon. Gentleman put down the Question. I note that in his Question he mentions five fatalities: actually, there have been four. If he has any further information on that aspect, I should be very pleased to have it.

Mrs. Braddock

Can my hon. Friend tell me when this site moved out of the Exchange Division of Liverpool into the Toxteth Division of Liverpool?

Mr. Lee

Not without notice.