§ 27. Mr. Skeffingtonasked the Minister of Labour when it is proposed to introduce safety regulations dealing with radiation in factories.
§ Mr. WoodLuminising with radioactive substances is covered by the Luminising Regulations, 1947. A preliminary draft of regulations covering the use of radioactive substances as sealed sources, and machines intended to produce ionising radiations was published in 1104 1957. Revision of this draft, taking account of the most recent recommendations of the International Commission on Radiological Protection, is well advanced and a new draft will be circulated shortly. Work is proceeding on a draft of regulations dealing generally with the use of radioactive substances as open sources, and my right hon. Friend hopes it will be possible to publish a draft in the course of this year.
§ Mr. SkeffingtonIs the hon. Gentleman aware that I was referring to the revision which is consequent upon the recent international conference? As many workers are facing what are in fact new hazards — as I think his own Report revealed last year— can he expedite the drafting of the regulations, since there are major risks? What is the position of people working in laboratories which may be within a factory although technically not covered under existing legislation and not within the Factories Acts?
§ Mr. WoodA number of these matters are being considered by the Standing Committee which is discussing the Factories Bill. I do not know the answer to the hon. Member's question about the position in laboratories. I will do my best to find out and let him know.