§ 10. Mr. Iremongerasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what consultations he has had with the Central Fire Brigades Advisory Council 1574 for England and Wales on the subject of fire precautions in shops, offices, restaurants, laboratories and warehouses, which are not covered by the Factories Acts of 1937 and 1959; and when he expects to be able to introduce comprehensive legislation on the subject.
§ Mr. R. A. ButlerThe question has been placed on the agenda of the next meeting of the Council at the request of one of its constituent bodies and I shall of course give careful consideration to any views expressed. As regards possible legislation, I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply given to the hon. Member for Liverpool, Exchange (Mrs. Braddock) on 7th July.
§ Mr. IremongerI thank my right hon. Friend for that reply. Will he bear in mind that this matter is now becoming extremely urgent? Many hon. Members will find it an intolerable burden on their consciences if more and more of their constituents object to the hazards of the appalling disasters of which we have seen examples recently?
§ Mr. ButlerYes. I am aware that the present law is not comprehensive or satisfactory. I am aware of the need for altering it.