§ 7. Dr. Strossasked the Minister of Labour whether he will make a statement on the research that is being conducted by his factory inspectorate on the industrial hazards associated with the process of welding, and in particular, into the composition of the electrode coatings.
§ Mr. Iain MacleodMembers of the factory inspectorate published in 1951 a Report of an investigation into the health of welders, a copy of which I am sending to the hon. Member. The conclusions 1900 of the Report were, in general, reassuring, but the Factory Department is considering the question of possible health risks from low hydrogen basic coated electrodes.
§ Dr. StrossMay I thank the Minister for his reply, especially the first part, and can he say whether his inspectorate is fully conscious of the specific dangers of welding when fumes are emitted, as from cadmium in particular?
§ Mr. MacleodYes, that matter is well recognised, and I noted the Question put by the hon. Gentleman to my right hon. Friend the Minister of Pensions and National Insurance a week or two ago.
§ Mr. MoodyIs the Minister satisfied that the total number of the factory inspectorate is sufficient to deal with all the cases as they should be dealt with?
§ Mr. MacleodYes, I think so. It is a matter which I look at from time to time, and I shall be glad to look at it again.