§ 3. Mr. Ellis Smithasked the Minister of Labour what study he has made of the recommendations in the report of the Joint Standing Committee of the Pottery Industry, a copy of which has been sent to him; what action he intends to take further to reduce the ill-effects of dust and to increase the provision of protective clothing of better design and materials; and if he will arrange for the publication of the report.
§ Mr. HareThese recommendations concerning protective clothing represent an important advance in relation to the dust hazards in the industry. They have been circulated to all firms in the industry. I propose to seek the views of the Joint Standing Committee about the preparation of a report on their work to date for publication. I shall be considering what other steps to take by which we can secure full benefit from this work.
§ Mr. Ellis SmithIs the Minister aware that that reply will be greatly appreciated owing to the suffering which occurs in the area? Does he appreciate that this will contribute towards minimising that suffering?
§ Dr. StrossIs the Minister aware that the British Ceramic Research Association, which is responsible for this piece of attractive and useful research, should be congratulated? Is he aware that this is not the first piece of work of this type which has been so helpful? In view of the value of this and the fact that it is shown that these fibres do not hold noxious dust, should not the Minister see that other industries, such as the foundry industry, for example, should be notified of the advantage of suitable protective clothing?
§ Mr. HareI appreciate what the hon. Member said in the first part of that supplementary question. On the second 1346 part, as I indicated to the hon. Member for Stoke-on-Trent, South (Mr. Ellis Smith), I am considering what other steps to take to secure the full benefit from this work.