§ Mr. Boydenasked the Minister of Public Building and Works, in view of the large number of water pipes burst by frost recently and the consequent damage caused, what long-term remedies he is proposing to the building and water supply industries.
§ Mr. RipponMy Ministry issued Advisory Leaflet No. 41 in 1956, describing how water pipes and other fittings should be installed in new houses to be safe from damage by freezing and how existing installations could be improved and it has issued other leaflets on related subjects. These are obtainable from the Stationery Office. I am sending copies to the hon. Member.
There is certainly a need to make this and other technical information more widely known. I have recently appointed a Director of Research and Information who will be concerned with improving the quality of technical information services in close association with the professional bodies and all sides of the building industry. It must be remembered, however, that no matter how good the installation burst pipes are still liable to occur in any building which is inadequately heated during very cold weather.