§ Mr. Alfred Morrisasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he has any plans to introduce strict regulations on the use of plastic and foam rubber materials in furniture; what consultations he has had or will be having with the Chief and Assistant Chief Fire Officers' Association about the increasing number of fires in which firemen have to wear breathing apparatus because of toxic fumes; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MellorI understand from my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, who is responsible for the furniture flammability regulations, that there is no present intention of regulating the use of foam in furniture. There is at the moment no suitable safe and reasonably-priced alternative. The use of breathing apparatus by firemen is kept constantly under review through the machinery of the Central Fire Brigades Advisory Council.