asked the Secretary of State for Employment what steps the Health and Safety Commission has taken to ensure that local authorities have appointed only persons having suitable qualifications to be inspectors under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974; and if he is satisfied that only suitably qualified persons have been appointed.
[pursuant to his reply, 29 April 1980, c. 322]: It is the responsibility of those local authorities that are enforcing authorities under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 to determine the suitability of persons whom they appoint as inspectors to enforce the Act and associated provisions. The Health and Safety Commission has issued guidance to local authorities on the need to ensure that inspectors are properly qualified for these duties.