§ Mrs. Knightasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will take steps to safeguard young children from hazards on escalators used by the general public.
§ Mr. CallaghanThe Offices, Shops and Railway Premises Act, 1963, already provides for the safe installation and maintenance of escalators in shops and other premises coming within its scope, but there is no power to provide specifically for the safety of children.
I will consider further the possible need to issue guidance in this matter and would meanwhile ask parents to take particular care when their children, especially if wearing soft-soled footwear, are travelling on escalators.