WORKMEN KILLED

Southland Times, Issue 21661, 24 March 1932, Page 7

WORKMEN KILLED

THE WELLINGTON TRAGEDY. REFERENCE IN THE HOUSE. (Per United Press Association.) , Wellington, March 23. ' Reference to the disastrous accident, which occurred during the demolition of the old Government Life Insurance buildings yesterday was made in the House of Representatives this afternoon when Mr R. Semple arked the Minister of Public Works whether he would at once appoint a committee of inquiry to investigate the cause of the serious fatal accident resulting in the deaths of two workmen, such committee to consist of a representative appointed by the Government, one appointed by the General Labourers’ Union and to be presided over by a Stipendiary Magistrate, and further, that in the meantime and [rending such investigation, work be suspended. “The calamity,” said Mr Semple, “appears to have been 'due to sheer incompetence and it is claimed that to allow work to proceed under the present supervision would further endanger the lives of other workmen, pedestrians and passing traffic.” 'Pho Hon. J. G. Coates reported that a Coroner’s inquest would first be held, and when the verdict was received the Government would consider whether further steps were necessary. In the meantime, it was not thought necessary to stop the work. Mr Semple: You will kill several more then. . .

Mr Coates said he would be glad to have further inquiries made. Labour voices: Put your scaffolding inspectors on.