§ 18. Dr. A. Glynasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department, in view of recent casualties amongst window cleaners and the dangers involved to men working at high levels, what consideration he has given to the need for legislation to compel employers to provide adequate safety precautions for window cleaners working at a height; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. VosperMy right hon. Friend has not sufficient evidence at present of a case for legislation on this matter and he has received no representations on the subject. If, however, my hon. Friend has any evidence which he wishes to bring to my right hon. Friend's notice, he will be glad to consider it.
§ Dr. StrossHowever, is it not correct that men who clean windows inside or outside a factory have statutory protection under the Factories Acts, while there is no protection for them if the same men work on a block of flats? Is not that enough evidence to show that we need legislation to give complete cover to all these men?
§ Mr. VosperI should not like to give a categorical answer to the first part of that supplementary question. I think that some years ago the London County Council discussed with the trade unions the matter raised in the second part of the question, but no case was put forward. However, I am perfectly prepared to consider it if evidence is supplied.