§ 11. Sir A. Meyerasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will amend the fire precautions regulations so as to stipulate a maximum opening pressure for fire doors.
§ Dr. SummerskillUntil current research into the self-closure of fire resisting doors has been completed, it is not possible to say whether maximum opening pressures could appropriately be prescribed in regulations.
§ Sir A. MeyerCurrent research be blowed! Has the hon. Lady ever tried to open fire doors, particularly in some modern hotels? Does she not understand that elderly people, small children and invalids would have the utmost difficulty opening these doors in the event of an emergency and might very well be burned to death?
§ Dr. SummerskillI am aware of the hon. Gentleman's anxiety about this subject, which is extremely important, but there are a variety of existing installations and a wide range of devices. It is therefore necessary, before prescribing regulations, to look into them fully.
§ Mr. ChurchillIs the hon. Lady aware that many elderly and disabled people have expressed grave anxiety that under the fire prevention regulations local authorities install fireproof doors, supposedly for their safety? These people feel that they will be imprisoned by such doors in the event of a fire. Will the hon. Lady make special provision in this respect?
§ Dr. SummerskillI am certainly aware of this problem. I assure the House that we are doing everything possible to expedite the research and, if necessary, to introduce appropriate regulations.