§ 38. Mr. G. Robertsasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will grant permission for the administration of morphia by appropriately trained first-aid men in cases of serious injury to quarrymen.
§ Mr. VosperMy right hon. Friend will consider this suggestion in consultation with my right hon. Friend the Minister of Power, who is responsible for health and safety regulations for quarries.
§ Mr. RobertsIn thanking the Minister for that encouraging reply, may I ask him to bear in mind that not only both sides of this difficult and dangerous industry, but also the Inspectorate of Mines, are agreed on the urgent necessity for this reform? Will the right hon. Gentleman please look at it with every sympathy, as we are concerned about the number of slate quarrymen who, being fairly seriously injured, nevertheless needlessly meet their end because of the impact of shock and pain when this kind of relief is not immediately available?
§ Mr. VosperI am advised that my right hon. Friend the Minister of Power has had no particular pressure for this concession. If, however, the hon. Member would care to elaborate his case to me or my right hon. Friend, that would be helpful.