§ Mr. Loydenasked the Secretary of State for Employment whether he intends to take any further steps to remove the risk to workers' health from asbestosis.
§ Mr. John GrantI am informed by the Chairman of the Health and Safety Commission that an advisory committee has been set up to undertake a wide ranging review of the health risks from asbestos and to make recommendations on any further action which, in its view, ought to be taken.
The committee, whose membership was announced on 18th May 1976 reflects a wide range of scientific, medical and practical expertise and includes representatives from both sides of industry. To facilitate the work of the committee it is proposed to set up working groups to examine groups of subjects and onto which individuals with special skills and experience may be co-opted.
In the meantime Her Majesty's Inspectors of factories will continue to enforce the Asbestos Regulations 1969.