Mr. Robert G. HughesTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he has any plans to issue a new code of guidance to local authorities about playground provision and safety; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MoynihanThe Government regard it as essential that playgrounds should be as safe as possible and that children using them should not be at risk of accident. I have asked the national children's play and recreation unit to produce updated guidance on general aspects of play safety, including playground safety. This will make reference to the relevant British Standards and to the Health and Safety at Work, etc. Act 1974, which requires local authorities and other playground operators to take reasonable measures to ensure safety in playgrounds which are under their control. We hope to issue this guidance in the spring of next year and copies will be sent to all local authorities and other interested organisations.