To ask the Secretary of State for Employment, pursuant to his answer of 20 November 1991, Official Report, column 215, what guidance is given to Health and Safety inspectors about the reliance to be placed on statements taken by an employer from employees in investigating accidents where employees are injured.

Health and Safety Executive inspectors carrying out investigations into accidents in which employees are injured, conduct their own independent inquiries. Inspectors are advised to collect all the relevant information during their investigations and this could include statements taken by an employer from employees which may be helpful. However, inspectors personally interview whoever, in their professional judgment, is able to assist them in establishing the facts and do not rely on statements taken by employers.