asked the Secretary of State for Employment if he is satisfied that his promise of a 50 per cent. increase in the number of factory inspectors by 1979 will not fail to be implemented by reason of prospective cuts in public expenditure.

I am informed by the Chairman of the Health and Safety Commission that the commission has no plans for reducing the intake into HM Factory Inspectorate. The commission hopes to be able to continue with its plans for expansion of resources over the ensuing four years to a level in excess of 1,050 inspectors. Obviously, the rate of growth within the period will have to depend upon the availability of suitable candidates and the present economic situation.