§ 40. Mr. Rankinasked the Minister of Labour if he is satisfied that the provisions of Section 21 of the Factories Act relating in particular to the supervision and training of young persons working at dangerous machines are being carried out adequately; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. GodberSo long as accidents to young persons remain at their present level, I cannot be satisfied with the situation. In the course of my Department's round of discussions with industry in the past two years, great emphasis has been laid on the need to develop adequate training not only in the risks of particular machines but in all matters of safety. I agree that compliance with Section 21 is important but this is only one of the ways in which we deal with the problem.
§ Mr. RankinIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that at Mauchline in Scotland there is a factory whose management is refusing to re-engage all members of the supervisory staff who belong to my trade union and that the supervision at present is being done by unqualified persons? Can he do anything to deal with the case of which I think, he is aware?
§ Mr. GodberI am aware of this very difficult case, but I am not cognisant of its application to the hon. Gentleman's Question. I will look into it to see if there is anything I can do, but this is not a matter which is easy of solution, for there are many feelings about it.
§ Mr. RankinMy supplementary question is related to the Question, because 29 the use of unqualified supervisors may be a contributory factor in accidents.
§ Mr. GodberI did not see it in that way, but I will consider that aspect.