HC Deb 30 October 1956 vol 558 cc1239-40
37. Mr. Neave

asked the Minister of Labour whether he will make a statement on the organisation of the Factory Inspectorate with regard to radiation hazards in industry.

Mr. Carr

The Factory Inspectorate includes at headquarters a physicist engaged full-time in advising the Inspectorate and industry on precautions to be taken. All factory inspectors are supplied with information on this subject. Fifteen have been to courses on radiological protection at Harwell and it is hoped a further six will be going in December. More will be going as opportunity offers. One engineering inspector is at present attending a course on the design of nuclear reactors. Inspectors, including medical inspectors as appropriate, make special visits to factories where there are known to be radiation hazards. The Inspectorate is informed by the Atomic Energy Authority of all firms to which radioisotopes are delivered.

Mr. Neave

I thank my hon. Friend for that excellent reply. Will he pay particular attention to the training of engineer inspectors in this respect?

Mr. Carr

Yes, Sir, I will keep that point in mind.