§ 19. Mr. Llewellynasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government whether he has now decided what action should be taken as a result of his survey of frost damage to houses in the winter of 1955–56.
§ Mr. SandysThe survey, which covered nearly a million council houses, showed that 18 per cent. of them had suffered some damage from frost and that much of it was avoidable.
In the light of the information obtained, I have sent a circular to housing authorities and water undertakers, recommending that water byelaws should be brought into line with the recently issued British Standard Code of Practice on frost precautions; and I have asked that steps should be taken to improve co-operation between water undertakers and building byelaw authorities. I am drawing their attention to new materials and fittings which have proved capable of withstanding frost, and I am sending them 116W some suggestions for reducing the risk of frost damage in existing houses, at moderate cost.
I am also writing to the professional and trade organisations most concerned, to enlist their help in securing improvements in the design and layout of plumbing systems.
In addition, a short television film is being prepared to show people generally some simple precautions they can take in their own homes.
I am also arranging for the demonstration of what might be called a "Frostproof House" at the Ideal Home Exhibition next March.