HC Deb 24 July 1973 vol 860 c505W
Sir Bernard Braine

asked the Secretary of State for Employment what research is being currently undertaken into making polyurethane foam used in the furnishing trades safer to use and less likely to give off toxic fumes when subject to fire.

Mr. Dudley Smith

Research into various aspects of flammability and toxicity of expanded polyurethane foam is being undertaken by a number of interested organisations including the Rubber and Plastics Research Association, the Fire Research Station and the Safety in Mines Research Establishment. In addition, the manufacturers of foams used in the furnishing trades are understood to be engaged in research to produce new types of foam, which will be less flammable and less toxic.