HC Deb 04 July 1968 vol 767 cc1683-4
35. Mr. Dempsey

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what further consideration he has given to introducing regulations to reduce the number of burning accidents to children as a result of wearing inflammable night-wear, following the deliberations on this matter by the Working Party on Flammable Clothing; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Ennals

Recommendations relating to children's dressing-gowns are now being prepared. In respect of nightwear material sold by the yard, a voluntary scheme has been evolved under which retailers will be invited to display appropriate warning notices for the guidance of their customers.

Mr. Dempsey

Is the Minister aware that a number of these tragic burning accidents have happened to school girls wearing night attire manufactured in dressmaking classes? Will he prevail upon the Secretary of State for Education and Science and the Secretary of State for Scotland to prohibit the use of such inflammable materials in dressmaking classes at schools?

Mr. Ennals

All children's nightdresses offered for sale are required to be made of flame-resistant material. I will look into the question with my right hon. Friend.