§ Mr. WigleyTo ask the President of the Board of Trade if she will introduce a requirement for gas installers to have public liability insurance. [5434]
§ Mr. Nigel GriffithsThe Government do not believe that a requirement for public liability insurance by gas installers would be effective in safeguarding consumers. Compulsory insurance would not, of itself, ensure that installers have the necessary skills, competence and hardware to enable them to carry out their duties effectively and safely, which is the first line of defence for consumers. Gas safety legislation requires all gas installers to be registered with the Council of Registered Gas Installers and requires all gas transporters to ensure that their staff undertaking gas safety work meet appropriate standards.