HC Deb 01 February 1979 vol 961 cc517-8W
Mr. Cryer

asked the Secretary of State for Employment what are the criteria regarding the organisations to which factory inspectors give lectures on health and safety at work; if a fee is charged to those organisations which exist to make a profit out of day schools or conferences; and if he will state the scale of such fees.

Mr. John Grant

I am informed by the chairman of the Health and Safety Commission that the provision of speakers by Her Majesty Factory Inspectorate represents a considerable commitment of resources and each request is considered critically.

Factory inspectors normally give talks and lectures only when it will assist or further the aims and functions of the Health and Safety Executive to do so, and where only an inspector or specialist inspector can provide the necessary expertise.

A fee is charged to cover the full cost of providing a speaker at day schools and conferences run on commercial lines. Charges payable by other organisations vary according to their nature and purpose.

The full cost rates are:

Salary Hourly rate Daily rate
£ £
£3,659 to £8,000 10 75
£8,001 to £11,000 15 100
£11,001 to £14,000 20 150

In calculating chargeable time, estimates of preparation and travelling time are added to the time to be spent lecturing. These charges already allow for normal travelling expenses, but if exceptional costs, such as an overnight stay are incurred, these are added. Charges are also subject to VAT.

The majority of inspectors are in the lowest of the above bands.