HC Deb 18 June 2004 vol 422 cc1150-1W
Ms Atherton

To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what action he intends to take to tackle radon in Cornish homes. [179461]

Phil Hope

Radon is classed as a contaminant and is dealt with under Part C of the Building Regulations. I expect to make an announcement shortly on improvements to Part C.

Government have provided guidance on radon protection of new homes since the late 1980s. The current guidance, BRE report BR211, "Radon: guidance on protection measures for new dwellings," was last revised in 1999 following the results of a survey of radon levels in all homes in England and Wales. This survey was carried out by the National Radiological Protection Board (NRPB) and was published in 1996.