HC Deb 28 June 1967 vol 749 c484
3. Dr. Miller

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many deaths have occurred in Scotland certifiable as due to asbestosis in each of the last five years.

Mr. Milan

In the five years 1962 to 1966, five deaths in Scotland were certified as due to asbestosis: two in 1963, two in 1965 and one in 1966. There were also two cases in 1963 and one in 1965 in which the medical certificate indicated that asbestosis was a contributory or secondary cause of death.

Dr. Miller

I thank the Minister for his reply, but is he aware of the considerable concern caused among men who work with asbestos in any form because of morbidity statistics? Since asbestos clings to garments and is inhaled into the lungs, will he undertake to push for protective clothing, shower and locker facilities and full medical check-ups—not just X-rays—for the men concerned?

Mr. Millan

Asbestosis is a scheduled industrial disease, and preventive action of the kind my hon. Friend mentioned is really a matter for the Minister of Labour. I shall draw the attention of the Minister to my hon. Friend's remarks.