HC Deb 07 December 1984 vol 69 cc313-4W
Mr. Gwilym Jones

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he is considering legislation to require that all ring main plugs sold are so designed as to permit the use of only one fuse rating; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Fletcher

No. Such a regulation would involve redesign of both plugs and fuses, but would not in itself ensure that particular groups of appliances were fitted with fused plugs of particular ratings. In any case, the additional protection for the consumer would be negligible.

Mr. Gwilym Jones

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he is considering legislation to prohibit the use of electrical appliances with fused plugs without the plug being fitted with the capacity of fuse which maximises the protection of the appliance.

Mr. Fletcher

No. There are clear and serious objections to safety legislation covering the use of consumer products in people's homes rather than the commercial supply of such goods. Moreover, such a requirement, even if it were enforceable, would provide negligible additional protection to consumers.