§ Mr. Corbynasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what advice his Department issues concerning safety in domestic properties in the case of fire where double glazing is involved.
§ Mr. Giles ShawI have been asked to reply.
Home Office fire safety publicity includes general advice on the need to plan escape routes in case of fire in the home. Specific advice on the possible use of windows as a means of escape is contained in material issued by the glazing trade and this subject has also been publicised by other organisations.
§ Mr. Corbynasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what representations he has received from safety organisations concerning the dangers arising from fire in double-glazed properties.
§ Sir George YoungDuring the consultations over the new building regulations, representations were received from the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents that the regulations should require double-glazed windows to be openable to provide a means of escape in the event of fire.
In 1983 Government Departments carried out a review of policies on glazing and fire safety. Little evidence emerged then, or has done since the Home Office followed up the review in 1984, that fixed glazing is a significant factor in causing or contributing to fatal casualties. In the light of the review, the Government decided that an extension of the building regulations would not be justified.
However, the Government attach a high priority to fire safety in the home and we regularly review the requirements of the building regulations to ensure that essential fire safety standards are maintained.