HC Deb 24 June 1963 vol 679 cc933-4
26. Dr. Stross

asked the Minister of Labour what evidence he has of the observation of Regulation 32 of the Pottery (Health and Welfare) Special Regulations, 1950, in the pottery industry; and what change has taken place since the Factory Department reviewed the situation in 1959.

Mr. Whitelaw

Since 1959 action has been taken by the Joint Standing Committee on the Pottery Industry to provide training and other assistance to help the works' inspectors appointed under Regulation 32. My right hon. Friend is satisfied that this action, together with regular inspection by the Factory Inspectorate, is bringing about an improvement in the general standard of compliance with Regulation 32.

Dr. Stross

Is it not a fact that there are many factories where there are still no internal inspectors, and can the Parliamentary Secretary say what percentage of factories still have no internal inspectors?

Mr. Whitelaw

I could not say without notice, but I will certainly find out and let the hon. Gentleman know.

27. Dr. Stross

asked the Minister of Labour whether he will alter Regulation 32 of the Pottery (Health and Welfare) Special Regulations, 1950, so that the representatives appointed by the employers to supervise safety shall in future be elected by the workers in the factory.

Mr. Whitelaw

It is important to avoid action which would detract, or appear to detract, from the responsibility of the occupier for securing observance of the Regulations, whether by means of internal inspection or otherwise. For this reason my right hon. Friend is not in favour of altering the Regulation in the manner suggested.

Dr. Stross

If this Regulation were altered so as to conform with the technique used in Sweden, it would mean that the internal inspector would be elected and not appointed by the employer. Does not the Parliamentary Secretary realise that the essential weakness of the Regulations has always been the fact that it is an appointed inspector, usually an under-manager or even a lodge man, and that is why it has not worked? Will he consider this afresh, if only for the more dangerous part of the industry?

Mr. Whitelaw

I agree with the hon. Gentleman that the main problem is to secure really competent people as inspectors. Our Joint Standing Committee has recommended the careful selection and training of persons appointed under this Regulation. I shall certainly look at this matter.