§ Mr. Redmondasked the Secretary of State for Social Services to what extent in his recent action to raise the standards of fire safety measures in mental hospitals he has insisted on the greater use of fireproof curtains and furnishings.
§ Mr. AlisonStanding guidance to hospital authorities on fire precautions gives detailed advice on the relative flammability of various textile materials. This advice is under continuous review by the Scientific and Technical Branch of the Department's Supply Division. Mandatory directions to use fireproof furnishings have not been issued because in many hospital situations they present unacceptable problems of cleaning and sterilisation.