HC Deb 22 February 1972 vol 831 cc276-7W
Mr. Leslie Huckfield

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department (1) what research is currently being undertaken by his Department into the efficiency and utility of mini-fire extinguishers;

(2) what consultation has taken place between his Department and chief fire officers about the use of mini-fire extinguishers.

Mr. Sharples

No research on mini-fire extinguishers is being undertaken by the Home Office. Consultations have taken place within the Central Fire Brigades Advisory Council, on which chief fire officers are represented, with a view to warning the public about the limitations of such extinguishers.

Mr. Leslie Huckfield

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he will list the current regulations governing fitting, use and size standards of fire extinguishers.

Mr. Sharples

There are no Home Office regulations of precisely this nature. Legislation relating to the provision of fire extinguishers is normally expressed in more general terms, the precise nature of the equipment being a matter for those concerned or for the enforcing authorities according to circumstances.