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Bradford Explosion

Volume 32: debated on Thursday 14 December 1911

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asked the Home Secretary whether his attention has been called to the report of an explosion which occurred in Bradford on the 1st instant, as a result of which two men were killed, a number of other persons were injured, and in addition a quantity of valuable machinery was destroyed and substantial stone buildings wrecked; and if, having regard to the widespread belief in Bradford that the explosion was caused by some dangerous liquid or substance disposed of as refuse in the Bradford Beck, and to prevent the possibility of other similar occurrences in future, he will institute an inquiry to discover the cause of the explosion and who is responsible?

My attention has been called to this accident. According to the information which I have received, the accident is not one in regard to which I have any statutory power to take action, either under the Explosives Act or under the Factory Act. I am informed by the Coroner that it is anticipated the facts will be fully gone into at the adjourned inquest, and I have told him that, if after hearing the evidence he should consider the attendance of an officer of the Explosives Department of the Home Office desirable arrangements will be made for that purpose.