§ Mr. McLeishTo ask the hon. Member for Berwick-upon-Tweed, representing the House of Commons Commission, what progress has been made since 1 November 1989 by the head of the Administration Department in considering whether the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 applies to Commission employees; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Beith[holding answer 15 March 1990]: As explained in reply to the hon. Member for Nottingham, North (Mr. Allen) on 19 June 1989, at column 16, it is the policy of the House of Commons Commission to endeavour to comply fully with the requirements of t he Act and with all other relevant statutory provisions, subject only to specific exemptions provided for in legislation. Further advice has confirmed that there has been no change in this position.