§ 64. Mr. Derek Pageasked the Minister of Labour what proposals he has to ensure that factory safety committees meet without delay after accidents to investigate circumstances.
§ Mr. ThorntonWorks safety committees have a very important rôle to play in the study and investigation of the circumstances giving rise to accidents, but I do not think that it would be either desirable or practicable for my right hon. Friend to recommend any particular procedure for them to follow. Their function is, of course, an advisory one and it is for the committees themselves to decide in the light of local circumstances how best to carry this out.
§ Mr. PageDoes not my hon. Friend agree that evidence tends to grow cold unless an investigation is made at the earliest possible moment, and is he aware that many workers in the King's Lynn area feel that a greater sense or urgency is necessary?
§ Mr. ThorntonWe are giving very close attention to this subject and are concerned at the continuing increase in the number of accidents. However, I must remind my hon. Friend that of necessity these safety committees serve in an advisory capacity.