HC Deb 28 February 1962 vol 654 c156W
79. Mr. Mapp

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what action is taken by his Department to ensure that safety precautions are taken in respect of the movement by road of chemicals and other goods which, unless rigidly protected, are liable to explosion.

Mr. Renton

Statutory controls as to conveyance by road exist in respect of explosives to which the Explosives Act, 1875, applies and of petroleum spirit and mixtures and certain other substances, mainly compressed gases. The recent explosion at West Bromwich involving a lorry carrying chemicals is being investigated. If the probable cause of the explosion can be ascertained my right hon. Friend will consider what action may be required to prevent a recurrence.