§ 5. Mr. Prenticeasked the Minister of Labour whether the rise in the number of accidents at work during 1959, both for industrial workers in general and for young persons in particular, has been continued this year.
§ Mr. P. ThomasThe provisional figures for the first three quarters of 1960 show a total of 140,049 accidents reported under the Factories Acts compared with 126,188 for the same period in 1959. The highest figure was in the first quarter and the numbers have fallen in each succeeding quarter. Separate figures for young persons are not yet available.
§ Mr. PrenticeWould the Parliamentary Secretary agree that these figures are very disturbing indeed, because 1959 showed an increase over 1958 and now we are told that for the first three quarters of 1960 there is an increase over 1959? What steps are being taken by the Government? Will they have a fresh look at the question of the Factory Inspectorate and see whether this does not give added point to the argument that we have often put from this side of the House that this department should be increased?
§ Mr. ThomasI certainly agree that when there is an increase in accident figures it is disturbing. As for Government action, as the hon. Member knows, my right hon. Friend has recently published a new draft code of safety regulations for the construction industries which account for a high proportion of accidents. Further, Her Majesty's factory inspect ors will continue to enforce the law. General safety requires the sustained efforts, not only of the Government, but of employers, employees and all voluntary organisations concerned with accident prevention. The strength of the Inspectorate has been substantially increased in recent years and we will keep the matter under review.