§ Mr. ClaphamTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what assessment his Department has made or commissioned of the risk to school teachers and pupils from the crumbling of materials containing asbestos in schools; and if he will make a statement. [4210]
§ Mr. ByersLocal education authorities and school governors in voluntary aided and grant maintained schools have the statutory responsibility for the fabric of their buildings and the health and safety of pupils and employees while they are on the premises.
The Department's Architects and Building Branch, the Department of the Environment and the Health and Safety Executive provide them with detailed guidance on asbestos, including advice on how to assess risks, and on other building-related issues.