§ Mr. Welshasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what special studies or reports have been commissioned into problems of condensation and dampness in Scottish council houses; and if he is satisfied that houses of recent construction are reasonably free from these problems.
§ Mr. Hugh D. BrownGuidance on ways of initially avoiding or subsequently remedying condensation and dampness troubles in houses has been issued by the Government from time to time. In 1971 a study was undertaken by the Scottish Development Department in collaboration with the Building Research Establishment (Scottish Laboratory) and a memorandum entitled "Condensation: Diagnosis, Treatment and Remedial Measures in Existing Houses" was issued to all housing authorities in Scotland.
I am aware that several authorities have had serious condensation problems in their houses: but if designers apply the published guidance Scottish council houses should be reasonably free from these problems. The recently increased thermal insulation standards for walls and roofs should help reduce significantly the risk of condensation.