HC Deb 16 November 1983 vol 48 c446W
Mr. Carter-Jones

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will take steps to ensure that all timber now used in new private or public buildings and all timber used for improvements to private and public buildings is properly treated for preservation and for fire-proofing; and if he will make a statement.

Sir George Young

While it is not practicable to set up controls on all timber used in construction, where the health and safety of people in buildings are concerned the building regulations apply. They require that materials used in the erection or alteration of a building should be of a suitable nature and quality and be properly prepared. They also require that the structural elements of buildings shall have appropriate fire resistance. Local authorities have adequate powers to enforce the regulations.