HC Deb 29 January 1980 vol 977 cc625-6W
Mr. Rooker

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he proposes to amend building regulation procedure.

Mr. Geoffrey Finsberg

My right hon. Friend is at present consulting formally on a number of detailed amendments to the building regulations. Comments on these proposals are requested by 19 March this year. Also, proposals for a scheme of fees for building control services have completed formal consultation and a scheme will be introduced this year.

These measures are part of the normal process of maintaining and updating the existing building regulations and are without prejudice to the review of the whole present system of control over the construction of buildings initiated by my right hon. Friend. He outlined the possibilities for change in a speech on 10 December and asked for comments on his suggestions by the end of this month.

Mr. Rooker

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he is satisfied with the contribution of building regulation procedure to energy conservation; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Geoffrey Finsberg

The building regulations set minimum mandatory standards for new buildings. I am at present consulting about higher standards for dwellings.