HC Deb 14 July 1975 vol 895 cc331-2W
Mr. Hoyle

asked the Secretary of State for Employment what action he is taking to safeguard the health and safety of work people following the recently published report of the working party on the experimental manipulation of the genetic composition of micro-organisms and the report of the working party on the laboratory use of dangerous pathogens; and if he will establish a committee which will ensure, in the light of these reports, that the work is carried out under entirely safe conditions, and that employees involved in such work are adequately represented through their recognised trade unions on such a committee.

Mr. Harold Walker

My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Social Services made a statement on 20th May on the report of the Working Party on the Laboratory Use of Dangerous Pathogens, and the Government are now considering, in the light of comments received, its response to the report of the working party on the experimental manipulation of the genetic composition of micro-organisms. I am advised by the Chairman of the Health and Safety Commission that the Health and Safety Executive is engaged in discussion with the appropriate Departments on the measures now necessary to safeguard the health and safety of work people in the light of the reports. Under Section 16 of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, codes of practice can be approved and issued by the Health and Safety Commission, and it is the commission's policy to have prior consultation with all interested parties, including representatives of trade unions.

Mr. Sillars

asked the Secretary of State for Employment if he will list health and safety legislation which covers members of the fire service at fire stations and when attending fires.

Mr. Harold Walker

The legislation for which my right hon. Friend is responsible applies to all people at work including members of the Fire Service and is that embodied in the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. The only people not covered by this Act are those employed in private homes as domestic servants. Under this Act the Health and Safety Commission has been established. One of its functions is to advise my right hon. Friend on the application of the Act to activities, including those of the Fire Service, which have not previously been covered by legislation such as the Factories Act 1961 and the Offices, Shop and Railways Premises Act 1963 for which my right hon. Friend is responsible and which has now been incorporated in the new legislation.