HC Deb 06 April 1971 vol 815 c221
5. Mr. Clinton Davis

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what discussions he has had with the London borough of Hackney concerning inadequate heating for retired people living in the borough, and particularly to local authority dwellings, having regard to the increase of hypothermia in inner London.

Mr. Alison

None, Sir; but last November my Department drew the attention of all local authorities to the need to bear in mind the health risks of inadequate heating and the precautionary measures that might be taken to deal with them.

Mr. Clinton Davis

I thank the hon. Gentleman for that reply. Is not there a need for intensive research to be undertaken by the Government into the problem of inadequate heating, especially for the elderly? Does not he consider that this ought to be put in hand now so that effective provision can be made in time for next winter?

Mr. Alison

Hypothermia is strictly a medical condition, and research with the appropriate bodies is going on continually. Precautionary measures to obviate the hazard of hypothermia have been in hand for some time and are regularly reviewed and pursued.