§ Sir R. Russellasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if, in view of the 45 deaths which occurred in public swimming baths and pools in 1969, he will make recommendations to local authorities and others responsible for the management of pools for adequate supervision by qualified attendants or lifeguards and for a code of safety giving guidance on pool capacity and equipment.
§ Mr. Eldon GriffithsLocal authorities already have powers under Section 233 of the Public Health Act to make bye-laws for the prevention of accidents in baths which are not under their management. The model byelaws issued for their guidance include a requirement that an attendant shall be in attendance who is proficient in swimming, life saving and artificial respiration. As far as their own baths are concerned, most authorities provide fully qualified staff.
Guidance on design of pools including the question of safety, is available in Design Bulletin 4 of the former Ministry of Housing and Local Government. I am considering whether further guidance is called for.