§ Mr. Carter-Jonesasked the Minister of State for Defence if he is satisfied with the amount of protection against infection and contamination for workers in Departments of Defence Research and Production establishments; if he will consult with unions and professional bodies regarding possible dangers; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Ian GilmourIt is our policy at least to equal the statutory requirements for health and safety at Ministry of Defence research and production establishments. We shall continue our long established practice of involving union representatives and professional bodies in seeking to improve the protection afforded against infection and contamination.
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§ Mr. Carter-Jonesasked the Minister of State for Defence if he will indicate the machinery for handling complaints about contamination or infection at Department of Defence Research and Production units; if he will describe the mechanism by which such claims are settled; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Ian GilmourOn the rare occasions when complaints arise, they are normally dealt with by the Ministry of Defence safety services organisation, which consults professional bodies as necessary. Common law claims arising from death, injuries or disabilities alleged to have been sustained at work are considered on their legal merits and, where appropriate, settled by the Ministry of Defence claims commission.