HC Deb 18 February 1959 vol 600 cc370-1
55. Mr. Skeffington

asked the Minister of Labour what progress has been made in revising the Dock Regulations, 1934.

Mr. Wood

As the hon. Member knows, this problem raises a number of practical difficulties. A memorandum on the subject has been sent to the interested organisations, which have been asked for their comments. Comments have been received from all but one organisation, and my officers have had discussions with a number of organisations. Further discussions will be necessary, and my right hon. Friend will then be in a position to decide what action is appropriate.

Mr. Skeffington

Does the Minister recall that his predecessor two years ago said that the Department was getting a move on in revising these Regulations, particularly in view of the strong criticism of them in the Court of Appeal? As there is some evidence that three or four men a year are being drowned because the Regulations are not right, could not something be done to speed up the matter?

Mr. Wood

When we have this further comment we are awaiting from one of the interested parties, and when we have had discussions with another interested party who wishes to discuss certain matters with us, we will make progress as soon as we possibly can.