§ 81. Sir H. Lucas-Toothasked the Minister of Labour whether he and the Minister of Transport have now completed their consideration of the reports on the accident which took place on the morning of Saturday, 20th June on the North Circular Road near Brent Cross; and whether he will direct a formal investigation under his powers.
§ Mr. WhitelawYes. My right hon. Friends have received and studied the 155W preliminary reports for which they called. They have decided that it is desirable for an independent inquiry to be held into all the causes and circumstances of this tragic accident. My right hon. Friend is accordingly arranging for a formal investigation to be held on the causes and circumstances of the accident, under his powers contained in Section 84 of the Factories Act, 1961. These powers are wide enough to allow a full inquiry into all aspects which are matters of public concern, and the court will be asked so to report. I am happy to say that Mr. E. S. Fay, Q.C., has accepted my right hon. Friend's invitation to conduct the inquiry. The inquiry will be held in public and its report will be published.