§ 38. Mr. Dempseyasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if, in view of the growing number of house fires and consequent danger to life and property, he will circularise all local authorities, new town corporations and the Scottish Special Housing Associations, asking them to submit all housing development plans to fire prevention authorities for their approval; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. G. CampbellUp-to-date structural requirements to prevent the outbreak and spread of fire and to assist escape are contained in the new Building Standards Regulations which will govern all house-building, both by public and by private agencies, from 15th June.
§ Mr. DempseyWill the hon. Gentleman bear in mind that in 800 Scottish Special Housing Association houses 16 people have died and eight have been seriously injured as a result of fire? As the number of these houses is smaller than the number of municipal houses, will 1301 the hon. Gentleman do his utmost to ensure that there is thoroughly effective and efficient co-operation between housing authorities, on the one hand, and the fire prevention authorities, on the other, in order to safeguard the lives of our people?
§ Mr. CampbellI agree that, where special knowledge is required, the Fire Protection Association and other bodies should be consulted. My right hon. Friend is as concerned as the hon. Gentleman is about recent accidents, but the new Regulations, when they come into force, will include up-to-date advice on fire precautions from those in the best position to give it.