§ Mr. JackTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what steps he is taking to ensure that unvented hot water storage systems are installed by registered plumbers under the terms of the scheme operated by the British Board of Agrèment.
§ Mr. TrippierThe installation of an unvented hot water system is covered by the safety requirements set out in part G3 of the Building Regulations 1984. Guidance has been given that such a system should be installed by an approved installer, but there is no legal requirement to this effect, although there are requirements that the building control authority must be told whether or not the installer of a system has been approved. We have taken steps to make building control authorities aware of the dangers arising from improper installation, and we have actively encouraged plumbers to seek registration as approved installers. Nevertheless, I am aware that the British Board of Agrèment remains concerned about this issue and my officials will be meeting it shortly to consider whether the present arrangements need to be reviewed.