HC Deb 11 November 1929 vol 231 cc1537-8W
Mr. STAMFORD

asked the Home Secretary whether he has received a report of the coroner's inquest on Abraham Jowett, a charge hand at Messrs. J. W. Roberts' asbestos works at Armley, Leeds, whose death was certified as being due to acute lobar pneumonia, contributed to by fibrosis due to asbestosis; and whether, in view of the risks to which workers in asbestos are exposed, he in tends to schedule the disease under the Workmen's Compensation Acts?

Mr. SHORT

Yes, Sir. My right hon. Friend has received a Report on this case from the Inspector who attended the inquest. The risks to which workers in asbestos are exposed have been the subject of a comprehensive inquiry by the Factory Department, and my right hon. Friend hopes to be in a position very shortly to consider what further pre cautions are necessary for the protection of the workers. The question of compensation will be considered at the same time. At the present moment he cannot make any statement on the subject.