§ 11. Mr. Nabarroasked the Minister of Fuel and Power what arrangements he has now made to encourage production of solid fuel burning domestic appliances with new standards of performance based on achieving a room efficiency of 40 per cent. with coal; to mark such appliances; and to produce high-efficiency open fires of utility pattern capable of easy installation in existing fire openings and with convection heating and a restricted throat, in accordance with recommendations 2, 3 and 6 and paragraphs 138 and 143 of the Report of the Ridley Committee on National Policy for the use of Fuel and Power Resources.
§ Mr. Geoffrey LloydI am glad to say that the manufacturers are already at work on these new designs. The so-called "room efficiency" standards have not yet been evolved, but I am advised that it may be possible to relate these to the present "test bench" standards. These are being revised and raised and when this has been done, the question of marking appliances can be decided.
§ Mr. NabarroWill my right hon. Friend bear in mind the supreme importance of clearly identifiable markings on these super-efficient appliances in view of the fact that so many of those at present on the market are of a relatively low efficiency and that much confusion is thereby being caused in the minds of householders?
§ Mr. LloydYes; but marks which indicate super-efficiency must be based on very certain standards, and the scientists are not yet sure that they can relate the room efficiency standards to the so-called test bench standards. Until they are sure about that we do not think it desirable to mark them.
§ Mr. T. BrownCan the right hon. Gentleman say whether, in the new houses now being erected in various parts, 13 particularly in coalfields, the improved type of fire range will be installed for the benefit of the miners?
§ Mr. LloydThe Coal Board are installing the improved ranges not only in the new houses but in a large number of the older houses.