HC Deb 24 March 1971 vol 814 cc536-7
Mr. Skinner

(by Private Notice) asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he will make a statement on the explosion yesterday at a South Normanton factory which resulted in the death of four people.

The Minister of State, Home Office (Mr. Richard Sharpies)

My right hon. Friend was notified yesterday afternoon that an accident had occurred at the factory of Explosives and Chemical Products Ltd., South Normanton, Derbyshire, involving a machine used in the production of blasting explosives. As a result of the explosion three people, a man and two women, were killed immediately and a fourth person, a woman, subsequently died from the injuries which she had received. One of H.M. Inspectors of Explosives went at once to the scene of the accident to undertake enquiries into its cause.

I should like to take this opportunity of expressing my deep sympathy with the relatives of those who have died.

Mr. Skinner

Is the Minister of State aware that I and I am sure the whole House will wish to be associated with the expression of sympathy which he has extended to the relatives of those who have died in this tragic incident?

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that there is a need for a thorough-going public inquiry into the circumstances of this accident, because eight years ago to the very day a similar explosion occurred in the self-same factory which fatally injured two people? Is the hon. Gentleman further aware that the whole neighbourhood is very anxious that steps be taken to ensure that there is not a third incident of this nature?

Mr. Sharples

The inspector has full powers under the Act to carry out his duties and the report which he produces will be published. I will ensure that a copy of it goes to the hon. Gentleman.