HC Deb 04 May 1944 vol 399 cc1453-4
13. Captain Plugge

asked the Minister of Health what steps are being taken to interest local authorities in the desirability of providing in their post-war houses coal burning grates which will be, as far as possible, smokeless; and to what extent they have been informed of the British Coal Utilisation Research Council in this field.

The Minister of Health (Mr. Willink)

I am arranging, in conjunction with my right hon. and gallant Friend the Minister of Fuel and Power and my noble Friend the Minister of Works, for the attention of local authorities to be drawn to this matter in the new housing manual now in course of preparation. Most local authorities are, I think, aware of the activities of the British Coal Utilisation Research Association, but further information will, I understand, be contained in the reports of the relevant Study Committees of the Post-War Building Directorate of tote Ministry of Works.

Captain Plugge

Can my right hon. and learned Friend say whether the house now being exhibited at the Tate Gallery is fitted with a grate of this type?

Mr. Willink

Perhaps my hon. and gallant Friend will take an opportunity to see the house.

Mr. Shinwell

What is the use of making a recommendation to local authorities unless, in Government-owned houses, the Government take steps to apply the recommendation themselves?

Mr. Willink

I have not said what the recommendation would be. The whole question of these grates is being explored and its examination is not yet complete.

Mr. Keeling

Would my right hon. and learned Friend agree that the smokelessness of grates may depend to a large extent on what you burn in them?

Captain Pluggc

Is my right hon. and learned Friend aware that this type of grate also radiates much more heat in a room, which is very important?

Back to