HC Deb 02 May 1961 vol 639 cc1131-2
Mr. Holt (by Private Notice)

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he will make a statement concerning the fire in Crown Street, Bolton, last night, which resulted in serious loss of life.

The Joint Under-Secretary of State for the Home Department (Mr. David Renton)

The Bolton Fire Brigade was summoned at seven minutes past eleven last night to a fire involving a club on the top floor of premises in Crown Street, used primarily for warehousing and commercial purposes.

I regret to inform the House that the fire is reported to have caused the deaths of 19 people, and I should like to take this opportunity of offering my deepest sympathy to the relatives of those who have lost their lives.

My right hon. Friend has arranged for two of Her Majesty's inspectors of fire services to visit the scene of the fire and submit to him a detailed report.

Mr. Holt

I know that all Members of the House will share the hon. and learned Gentleman's concern and sympathy for the relatives and friends of those who lost their lives in this tragic event.

Will the terms of reference of the inquiry which the Home Secretary has instituted be wide enough to embrace all matters which may have bearing on the cause of this disaster? Will the Home Secretary, at the same time, look at the powers of local authorities and consider whether they are sufficient to enforce recommendations on fire precautions that chief fire officers may make from time to time in respect of clubs?

Mr. Renton

The two inspectors who are carrying out this investigation will be reporting to my right hon. Friend before the end of this week. They will make an immediate report. The inquiry is not public. Nevertheless, it is expected to be a comprehensive investigation into the matter.

We will, of course, consider the second point raised by the hon. Gentleman in his supplementary question when we have the report.

Mr. Holt

Does that mean that, after the Home Secretary has received the report, it is still possible, if circumstances require it, for a larger and public inquiry to be held?

Mr. Renton

My right hon. Friend will consider that when he has received the inspectors' report.