§ Mr. W. BAKERasked the Home Secretary how many local authorities have made by-laws under Section 15 of the Factory and Workshop Act, 1901, with regard to means of escape from fire in works in which not more than 40 persons are employed; and whether any action is being taken by the Home Department to impress on all local authorities the desirability of protecting the lives of persons working in factories or workshops?
Mr. LOCKER-LAMPSONThe number of local authorities which have made by-laws under the Section is 77. A memorandum was issued by the Home Office to local authorities in 1912 in which the provisions of the Act dealing with safety from fire were carefully explained. Special attention was drawn to the power of making by-laws and a model code of by-laws issued. Moreover, I am advised that the inspectors keep in close touch with the local authorities on this question and report to the local authority all premises where the means of escape are found to be unsatisfactory, whether or not more than 40 persons are employed.