WHITE LEAD CONTROVERSY

Evening Star, Issue 18667, 23 June 1924, Page 6

WHITE LEAD CONTROVERSY

QUESTION OF PROHIBITION. BILL BEFORE COMMONS. Press Associaiicm—By Telegraph—Copyright. LONDON, Juno 20. In the House of Commons Mr Rhys Davis (Under-Socretary for Homo Affairs) moved the second reading of the Lead Paint Bill, which ratifies the resolution of the International Labor Convention adopted at Geneva in November, 1921. The Bill prohibits tho use of lead paint for interior painting after November 19, 1927.

The Minister, in moving the first reading of tile Bill, said that both tho master painters and the men favored the Bill. Ho quoted statistics showing fatalities from lead poisoning. Mr E. A. Harney (Liberal), in moving the rejection of the Rill, declared that there was no substitute for load paint.

Mr F. C, Grenfell (Con.), in seconding tho motion for rejection, alleged that M. Albert Thomas, director of tho International Libor Bureau, was biased in favor of the rinc industry. He contended that the Bill would result in an increase, in tho cost of zinc, which would be used instead of white load. It would increase the cost of painting and throw white lead makers out of employment. Mr Hamey later withdrew his rejection motion, and Die Lead Paint Bill was read a second time.

Mr Arthur Henderson (Homo Secretary) strongly deprecated Mr Grenfell’s attack on Mr Thomas. He repudiated tho suggestion of bias, and said if clause I. of the Bill enacting the prohibition were deleted in committee be would still proceed with the remainder of tho Bill providing for the regulation of the rise of white lead in paint.—A. and N.Z. and Reuter Cables.