HC Deb 12 March 1969 vol 779 cc283-4W
59. Mr. Monro

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what consultations he has had with local authorities regarding fire prevention in existing houses and in those at the design stage; and if he will make a statement.

Dr. Dickson Mabon

As regards houses at the design stage, the Building Standards Regulations require adequate structural fire precautions to be provided in all buildings and means of escape to be provided in flats and houses over two storeys. The Building (Scotland) Act, 1959, enables local authorities to require the regulation means of escape to be provided in existing flats and houses over two storeys where this is reasonably practicable.

Local authorities always have an opportunity of commenting before such regulations are made.

60. Mr. Clark Hutchison

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what steps he is taking in conjunction with local authorities in Scotland to ensure that adequate fire escapes or exits are maintained in blocks of dwelling flats and similar buildings.

Mr. Ross

Under the Building Standards Regulations adequate means of escape must be provided in new buildings; and under the Building (Scotland) Act, 1959, local authorities may require that existing buildings should be made to conform to these provisions of the Regulations, where this is reasonably practicable. Local fire authorities are always prepared, on request, to advise on the maintenance of means of escape, and I know of no reason to think that local housing authorities do not maintain adequate means of escape from blocks of houses which they own.

Mr. Buchanan-Smith

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will sponsor a special fire prevention campaign to increase public awareness of the dangers of accidents from fire in the home.

Mr. Buchan

Yes. I hope, with the co-operation of the fire authorities, to mount such a campaign later this year.