asked the Secretary of State for Employment what action has resulted from the recommendation of the Senior Medical Inspector's advisory panel on problems arising from the use of asbestos, that there should be a survey of asbestos workers.

A survey is being carried out with the co-operation of the Asbestosis Research Council and the Ministry of Defence (Navy) by the Medical Services Division of my Department which will result in the build-up of a medical register of asbestos workers. The aims of the survey are—

(a) to learn as much as possible about the history of exposure to different types of asbestos dust; and

(b) to provide a sound basis for future assessments of preventive measures.

Environmental dust measurements will be carried out by Her Majesty's Factory Inspectorate in order to relate the observed clinical and radiological changes in those taking part in the survey to the levels of exposure. The Industrial Health Advisory Committee has welcomed the survey and will be kept informed of progress.