§ 3. Mrs. McKayasked the Minister of Labour what evidence he has now collected on the need for an occupational hygiene service; and what conclusions he has reached on the provision of such a service.
§ The Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Labour (Mr. Ernest Thornton)A sample survey of all factories to establish the size of the problem, planned with the advice of a panel of my right hon. Friend's Industrial Health Advisory Committee, has now started. We expect the results to be available in the spring of 1966. Meanwhile my right hon. Friend will be discussing the matter further with his Industrial Health Advisory Committee at its next meeting.
§ Mrs. McKayMay I thank my hon. Friend for that reply and express my appreciation that this survey is progressing? Meantime, in view of the toxic hazards, of which his Department is already aware and about which it is collecting material, such as byssinosis, mercury poisoning and cancer from asbestos exposure, can he not now initiate action to provide facilities, personnel and instrumentation for a limited service in this sphere pending the general survey?
§ Mr. ThorntonThe very important matters that my hon. Friend raises are receiving the closest possible attention and we shall certainly move forward with all possible speed.