§ 47. Dame Joan Vickersasked the Minister of Labour, in view of the increased number of industrial accidents, what action he is taking to improve the service provided by his factory inspectors.
§ Mr. FernyhoughA number of steps are being taken to strengthen the Inspectorate, including the establishment of a new class of construction inspector for inspection and advisory work in the construction industry; the recruitment of a number of fire officers for fire certification of premises under the Offices, Shops and Railway Premises Act, 1963, an increase in the staff of the specialist branches and the extension of the scheme started in 1965 under which Departmental officers are attached to the Inspectorate as assistant inspectors.
§ Dame Joan VickersI thank the hon. Gentleman for that reply. May I ask when the schemes will Start?
§ Mr. FernyhoughStarts have been made in particular industries.
§ Mr. PavittWill my hon. Friend take this opportunity to look at the whole 915 question of an occupational health service in reviewing the work of his Factory Inspectorate and its possible relationship to the Ministry of Health?
§ Mr. FernyhoughWe will look at it, yes.