§ Mr. Peter Bruinvelsasked the Secretary of State for Employment how many incidents have been reported to him of liquid propane gas (a) leaking and (b) exploding; and whether he will make a statement.
§ Mr. GummerRecords kept by HM Factory Inspectorate for liquefied petroleum gas, which consists of propane and butane, do not separately distinguish propane. Details of accidents and dangerous occurrences do not usually separately identify incidents involving LPG and comprehensive statistics are therefore not available. No records are kept concerning leakage. However, during 1978 and 1979 an analysis was carried out of the number of reported incidents involving LPG fires and explosions at factory and construction sites with the following result:
Number 1978 40 1979 41
§ Mr. Peter Bruinvelsasked the Secretary of State for Employment if he is satisfied over the safety aspects in storing liquid propane gas in overground tanks; and what representations he has had about the known risk factors in storing liquid propane gas.
§ Mr. GummerI understand that the Health and Safety Commission will be considering the publication of a consultative document later this year containing proposals which will revise the existing legislation and advice relating to all flammable gases.
I have received a number of representations from hon. Members, trade associations and organisations relating to the storage of liquid propane gas, mostly referring to particular incidents or premises. If my hon. Friend has any particular representation in mind I would be happy to consider it further.