§ 32. Mr. N. Pannellasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs if, in view of the disturbing number of cases recently reported of outbreaks of fire in multi-occupied premises involving loss of life, he is satisfied that the local byelaws regarding fire-escapes and other precautions are adequate and are being observed.
§ Mr. CorfieldLocal authorities' powers to require the provision of means of escape from multi-occupied dwellings are contained in Section 16 of the Housing Act, 1961. My right hon. Friend has thought it desirable to propose to Parliament some improvement in these powers. The current Housing Bill will make it an offence to fail wilfully to comply with a notice served under that Section; and will make the cost of works carried out by a local authority in default of compliance with the notice a charge on all interests in the house.