§ Mr. Blenkinsopasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government what action is being taken to ensure that fixtures for fireguards are included in all new houses that are built.
§ Mr. MellishMy right hon. Friend's predecessors have on several occasions advised local authorities and new town development corporations to provide for every open fireplace in their new houses, fixed points for a fireguard in accordance with the appropriate British Standard specification.
There are no powers at present under which this can be made obligatory for all new houses, but my right hon. Friend the Minister of Public Building and Works is bearing this in mind in framing his proposals for comprehensive building legislation.