HC Deb 26 July 1963 vol 681 cc1993-4

Lords Amendment: In page 23, line 16, at end insert: (6) Where the appropriate authority are satisfied, with respect to any premises with respect to which a notice under subsection (3) of this section has been given to them, that the giving of effect to the proposals notified will not result in the means of escape from the premises in case of fire becoming insufficient, they shall, upon production of the fire certificate in force with respect to the premises, cause to be written on the certificate a statement that they are so satisfied".

Mr. Whitelaw

I beg to move, That this House doth agree with the Lords in the said Amendment.

The next Amendment, in page 27, line 11, is consequential to this and might be discussed at the same time.

12.15 p.m.

Clause 30(4) provides that in cases where there is a change of conditions in any premises, or a proposed change of conditions, by reason of which the existing means of escape in the event of fire have become, or are likely to become, insufficient and the fire authority requires alterations to be made to the premises, the fire certificate shall be amended or a new one issued.

It was suggested in Committee by the hon. and learned Member for Derby, North (Mr. MacDermot) that the fire certificate should also be amended in cases where, notwithstanding the changes or proposed changes in conditions, the fire authority is satisfied that the means of escape are still sufficient. The Amendment we are discussing requires the fire authority to note the certificate in these circumstances. This modification of the procedure should keep fire certificates up to date and be generally helpful to owners and occupiers. I am grateful to the hon. and learned Member for Derby, North for bringing this matter to our attention.

Question put and agreed to.

Subsequent Lords Amendment agreed to.