HC Deb 14 December 1948 vol 459 cc122-3W
93. Mr. Janner

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that many utility beds are made so low that they cause great inconvenience to those nursing the sick and accumulate fluff and dust underneath; and whether he will request the trade that utility beds should be so constructed that they are higher from the ground.

Mr. Bottomley

There is no rule for the height of bedsteads other than that set by public taste. The conventional height of spring mattresses for many years has been 10½ inches to 12 inches above the floor, and this gives ample room for cleaning. The height can be easily increased by altering the position of the brackets supporting the spring mattress, and I have no doubt the manufacturers of bedsteads are quite prepared to do this if there is a public demand. One of the functions of the Furniture Development Council, which will shortly begin its service, will be to undertake research into consumer needs; and this sort of problem will, I am sure, receive attention.