HC Deb 12 March 1969 vol 779 cc1372-3
37. Mr. Hannan

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what action he proposes to take following the inquiry into the James Watt Street fire in Glasgow; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Ross

I have nothing to add at present to the reply which I gave to the hon. Member for Glasgow, Cathcart (Mr. Edward M. Taylor) on 5th March, 1969.—[Vol. 779, c. 113.]

Mr. Hannan

Is my right hon. Friend aware that both sides of the House would like to express their appreciation of the extent and thoroughness of the report? May I ask when it is likely to be published? Does my right hon. Friend agree that, while we await the Holroyd Report on future provisions for fire prevention, there is a moral obligation on all owners of factories to ensure that the bars on old buildings comply with the existing legislation, and thereby help to ease the minds of many people in Glasgow?

Mr. Ross

I thank my hon. Friend for what he said at the outset of his supplementary question. He will be aware that as the inquiry was in public the public were kept informed of all that was involved. My hon. Friend the Under-Secretary of State for Employment and Productivity promised a statement following the interdepartmental discussions on the recommendations of the jury, and I shall bear that in mind. There will be a meeting on this subject next week, I hope, between Glasgow Corporation, officials of my Department, and the Department of Employment and Productivity.

Mr. Edward M. Taylor

Has the right hon. Gentleman received any requests from Glasgow for assistance in its present campaign to clean up potential fire traps? Is he considering introducing legislation about barred windows and can he comment on the unfortunate development relating to insurance cover in respect of the relatives of victims?

Mr. Ross

I do not know of any requests for additional financial help. To answer the hon. Gentleman's question about legislation, the discussions and consideration of the recommendations of the jury may lead to legislation, but it is too early to be specific on this point.