§ Mr. Cryerasked the Secretary of State for Employment if he has considered the twenty-third report of the Select Committee on statutory instruments, which states that articles in certain statutory instruments appear to be ultra vires the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974; what instructions he has issued to the Commission regarding the warrants to inspectors; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Mayhew[pursuant to his reply, 28 April 1980, c. 322]: I have considered the report on my right hon. Friend's behalf.
I am advised, and am satisfied, that instruments appointing inspectors are drawn in such a manner as to confer upon them power under the provisions of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 to grant exemptions pursuant to the relevant articles. My right hon. Friend has not issued any instructions to the Health and Safety Commission on this matter.