§ Mr. Michael Lathamasked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he will outline the obstacles preventing his setting up within his Department the machinery to implement a full type-approval system, as recommended by the Agrément Board; how many staff he estimates this would require; what would be the annual costs, both in salaries and administrative overheads; and when he expects to make further progress in this matter.
§ Mr. FreesonConsideration is being given to the possibility of setting up a system of type approvals for new building products. I will make a further statement as soon as possible.
§ Mr. Michael Lathamasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what proportion he estimates (a) by number and (b) by market value of the new building components and products coming on to the market have received an Agrément Certificate; and what action he proposes to take to widen the scope to nearer 100 per cent.
§ Mr. FreesonI doubt whether sufficient information is available to make a reliable estimate of this kind. Action to increase their market coverage is primarily a matter for the Agrçment Board.