HC Deb 20 January 1964 vol 687 cc690-1
7. Mr. Swingler

asked the Minister of Labour what consideration is being given in his Department to the establishment of an occupational health service.

Mr. Godber

The safeguarding of health at work in accordance with the provisions of the Factories Act and Regulations is a standing preoccupation of my Department. I also encourage the development of medical and nursing services in industry, but I have no proposals for their compulsory provision.

Mr. Swingler

What has happened to the proposal made to the Minister by the Industrial Health Advisory Committee, which, I think, originated from the British Medical Association? Is he saying that no consideration has been given to that? Has not the time come to do something on the basis of the several pilot schemes in occupational health which have been showing good results?

Mr. Godber

I agree that some of the pilot schemes have been showing good results, but, as I have said, I think that the responsibility which the Government accept at present in implementing the Factories Acts goes a very long way in this matter. I cannot undertake at present that I will go beyond the voluntary field. This does not mean that I shall not discuss the matter further with my National Joint Advisory Council.

Sir B. Stross

Does not the Minister recall that he has been fortified by two very valuable reports in recent years, one about the town of Halifax and its industries and factories, the other about the pottery industry of Great Britain? As both of these showed how desirable it was to have firmer and quicker action than he has yet been able to offer us, will not the Minister accept that we need an occupational health service, not necessarily an expensive one?

Mr. Godber

I think that the present way must continue, working by the voluntary process. A great deal is being done by this process, and it should not be minimised. A lot is being done by individual firms and I am all for encouraging this in any way possible. I could not undertake to go further than that today.

Mr. John Page

In his consideration of this subject, has my right hon. Friend had his attention drawn to the excellent group scheme organised by the Corporation of the City of London for office workers in London? In his talks with the National Joint Advisory Council, will he bear in mind the position of office workers in our larger cities and groups of office buildings?

Mr. Godber

I have not seen that report. I am grateful to my hon. Friend for drawing it to my attention.