§ Sir R. Russellasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what duties abroad are performed by Her Majesty's Inspectors of Explosives; in which countries; and what payments are made for these services.
§ Mr. Roy JenkinsInspectors of Explosives pay visits abroad chiefly for the purpose of attending international conferences about explosives and other dangerous substances. Many of the conferences take place in Switzerland, but 49W others have been held in France, Holland and Italy. Inspectors attend as representatives of H.M. Government and no payments are made for their services other than their normal salaries and expenses.
§ Sir R. Russellasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department to what extent Her Majesty's Inspectors of Explosives are under-staffed; and what steps are being taken to remedy the shortage.
§ Mr. Roy JenkinsThere is at present one vacancy. This arose on 31st October and steps are being taken to fill it. If the hon. Member has a particular problem in mind and would care to send me details, I shall be glad to look into it.