§ Mr. Barry JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he will make a statement on his policy concerning health and safety.
§ Mr. Michael ForsythI have been asked to reply. I am advised on health and safety policy by the Health and Safety Commission, HSC.
Government policy is to create a legislative framework and supporting safety systems which protect people from workplace risks. Within that system, the primary responsibility for ensuring the safety of workers and public rests with employers and others who create those risks. The function of the HSC and the Health and Safety Executive—the HSE—is to stimulate action and to set, advise on and enforce standards. It is the Government's policy to ensure the greatest possible value for money is achieved in the work of the HSE.
The HSC is also currently undertaking a review of health and safety legislation, designed to simplify, clarify and update it. The Government expect this to result in improved health and safety standards for workers.