§ Mr. McCrindleasked the Secretary of State for Transport if he will have discussions with the Civil Aviation Authority regarding the dangers arising from the ignition of materials used in the seating in aircraft; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. David Mitchell[pursuant to his reply, 18 July 1983, c. 60]: The Civil Aviation Authority is conducting research into the flammability of materials for aircraft seating, and the problems of smoke and toxic fumes. Through the authority's close links with the United States Federal Aviation Agency this research is co-ordinated with the results of the agency's own research programme. The problems are technically very complex but I understand that the FAA is about to announce new specifications for materials and testing criteria which should produce a significant advance in fire block techniques. When these have been proved the CAA will consider changing the standards for such materials incorporated in British Civil Airworthiness Requirements. However, any new standards set will have to be practicable and consistently achievable in quantity production.