HC Deb 30 May 1963 vol 678 cc1529-30
29. Mr. Wainwright

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if, in view of the danger to fire-fighting personnel when a fire breaks out near a place containing cylinders of propane and butane gases, he will take steps to ensure stricter precautions in the storage of gas cylinders.

Mr. Woodhouse

My information is that the danger arises principally in connection with the storage of these substances in industrial premises and building and road works sites. I understand that my right hon. Friend the Minister of Labour is preparing regulations under the Factories Act, 1961, which will inter alia, require precautions to be taken in respect of the storage and use of these substances in all such premises; and he hopes to have draft regulations ready for circulation to interested bodies in the near future.

Mr. Wainwright

I am much obliged for that reply. Will the hon. Gentleman urge on his right hon. Friend the need for these gas cylinders to be stored in a separate building away from where they are normally used and to make certain that only the minimum number of cylinders is in the building where the industrial or other works are being undertaken?

Mr. Woodhouse

I will convey those points to my right hon. Friend. The draft regulations will be circulated to interested parties before they are tabled.

Mr. Hector Hughes

Will these regulations be of nation-wide application, including Scotland, or will they apply only to local fire-fighting personnel.

Mr. Woodhouse

I understand that they will be nation-wide.

Mr. Wainwright

Will the Minister make certain that the fire officers and the Fire Brigades Union are consulted on what kind of measures should be taken to ensure the greatest safety in the storing of these vessels?

Mr. Woodhouse

I will convey that point to my right hon. Friend. Of course, the fire authorities will be among those to be consulted.