§ 3. Mr. ClaphamTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what measures he intends to strengthen the position of workplace safety representatives; and if he will make a statement. [25673]
§ The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the Environment (Sir Paul Beresford)The current system of workplace safety representatives works well, but we 888 intend to bring forward regulations to extend consultation rights to workplaces where there are no trade union safety representatives.
§ Mr. ClaphamIt is interesting that the Minister says that consultation procedures are to be modified, as he will know that safety representatives, working through their safety committees, have been an enormous influence in reducing accidents but that accidents have increased in some industries, such as mining. A couple of weeks ago, I drew to the Minister's attention the fact that a mining company operating in Northumberland—Stormgate Mining Ltd.—had not renewed its employer's liability insurance, yet men were working at that colliery. In his modified consultation procedure, will he arrange with the Coal Authority a register of all the activities of companies employed in the mining industry, to include a copy of the employer's liability insurance certificate, so that it can be viewed by the safety representatives at the colliery?
§ Sir Paul BeresfordWe are looking at, reviewing and giving consideration to this case.