HC Deb 27 January 1966 vol 723 cc372-3
6 and 20. Mr. Rhodes

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department (1) what proposals he has for an extension to the ban on the sale of inflammable baby-clothing; and whether he will make a statement;

(2) what proposals he has for dealing with the problem of the sale of inflammable nightwear to the elderly.

Mr. George Thomas

The possibility of extending the scope of the existing regulations, dealing with children's nightdresses, to other children's garments, to nightwear for the elderly and to material sold in the piece is being considered by the Working Party on Flammable Clothing. My right hon. Friend expects to receive the Working Party's first report shortly.

Mr. Rhodes

Is my hon. Friend aware that every year over 100 elderly people die from this cause? Would he, therefore, act quickly on the Working Party's report when he receives it? Will he bear in mind that, in spite of an excellent continuous daily campaign on this subject in, for example, the Newcastle Evening Chronicle people still take risks in their homes, and there have been several deaths from this cause in recent weeks?

Mr. Thomas

My right hon. Friend is well aware of the tragic figures of elderly people who die through this cause. Of course, the utmost urgency will be given to the report when it is received.