HC Deb 10 June 1991 vol 192 cc440-1W
Mr. Crowther

To ask the Secretary of State for Employment (1) when the Health and Safety Executive last carried out any research on non-malignant respiratory disease among steelworkers;

(2) if he will ask the Health and Safety Executive to carry out further research on non-malignant respiratory disease among steelworkers.

Mr. Forth

The Health and Safety Executive has recently undertaken a review of research on chronic non-malignant respiratory disease in ferrous metal manufacturing and production workers, including the steel industry and has also commissioned a wider ranging review of the health effects of airborne substances in the ferrous foundry industry. The results are expected to be available early next year.

In addition, the HSE continues to monitor closely other relevant research programmes including current proposals for research on health issues among steelworkers in Britain submitted to the European Coal and Steel Community.