HC Deb 30 November 1964 vol 703 cc11-2W
74. Mr. Dodds-Parker

asked the Minister of Public Building and Works whether he proposes to introduce legislation during the current session with a view to bringing the new building regulations into force.

Mr. C. Pannell

No. Building regulations for England and Wales, excluding London, can be made under the Public Health Act, 1961.

75. Mr. Dodds-Parker

asked the Minister of Public Building and Works whether he is satisfied that the new building regulations are drafted in such a way as to ensure that there should be a substantial reduction in fire losses in so far as new buildings are constructed in conformity with their provisions; and whether, with a view to avoiding possible loss of production from this source, he will give priority to this consideration.

Mr. C. Pannell

Under the Public Health Act, 1961, building regulations can be made only in the interests of public health and safety. The new regulations will prescribe structural precautions which should alleviate all the unfortunate consequences of fires in buildings.