14. Mr. Joseph T. Priceasked the Minister of Labour to what extent his factory inspectors have under his regulations advisory powers in connection with the abatement of industrial noise where factory processes are likely to interfere with the sleep of persons compelled to live in the immediate vicinity of factories.
§ Sir W. MoncktonNone at all, Sir. There is no statutory power under the Factories Acts to deal with nuisances affecting residents in the vicinity of a factory.
Mr. PriceWill the right hon. and learned Gentleman consider this matter further and see whether he can give any assistance to a large number of constituents of mine living in Horwich, Lancashire, whose lives are made intolerable by the noise emanating all night long from the plant of the British Transport Commission? Will he consider this matter generally in connection with the development of industry, because in the opinion of many of us it falls within the purview of his Department?
§ Sir W. MoncktonI can only deal with the situation as it is. It does not fall within the purview of the Factory Inspectorate. It falls within the provisions of the Public Health Acts, which are the concern of my right hon. Friend the Minister of Housing and Local Government.
§ Mr. Harmar NichollsIs the Minister aware that if there were powers the Factory Inspectorate is so much below establishment that it would be doubtful if they could give attention to the matter?