HC Deb 24 February 1937 vol 320 cc2018-9W
Mr. Gardner

asked the Home Secretary whether he will consider giving legal force to an opinion first expressed by his Department in 1931 and confirmed by him in a letter, dated 5th January, 1937, in connection with an industrial process in which a material known as glass-silk is used, namely, that persons employed in handling this material should be provided with protective clothing, respirators, and goggles in order that the admitted risks of dermatitis and irritation of the throat and nasal passages may be as far as possible avoided?

Mr. Lloyd

I am advised that the experience of the Factory Department has not proved the effects of this material to be so serious as was feared in 1931, and the Home Office letter of last month did not go so far as to confirm the views expressed six years ago. I am, however, having special inquiries made with a view to considering what further action is called for.