§ Mr. Harold Walkerasked the Secretary of State for Employment (1) why revised regulations for industrial first-aid are being delayed;
(2) when he intends to update first-aid regulations to take account of the wider statutory protection provided by the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974;
(3) if he has yet received proposals from the Health and Safety Commission for reform and updating of first-aid regulations.
§ Mr. WaddingtonI have not yet received such proposals. However, I understand that, following extensive consultation resulting from the publication in October 1979 of a consultative document, proposals for new first-aid regulations are to be considered by the Health and Safety Commission in the very near future. The proposed regulations would replace and up-date existing industrial first-aid legislation and would also cover employers brought within the scope of health and safety legislation for the first time by the Health and Safety at Work etc.. Act 1974. The regulations would be supported by an approved code of practice and guidance note. I expect to receive proposals from the Commission when their considerations have been completed.