News from Vale of Clwyd Labour

Mandatory sprinkler law moves ahead for new Welsh homes

Ann Jones AM yesterday officially laid the National Assembly for Wales’ first backbench Legislative Competence Order (LCO) ahead of an Assembly debate scheduled for 27th January 2010. Mrs Jones described the progress of the LCO, which seeks to make the installation of fire sprinklers mandatory in all new Welsh homes, as “historic”.

On successfully gaining the Assembly’s approval, the LCO will face votes in both Houses of Parliament before being approved by Her Majesty in Council.

Ann Jones AM said: “As I said from the outset, this is common sense legislation – which is why it enjoys the support of, amongst others, Wales’ Fire Services, Wales TUC, the Welsh Assembly Government and every political party in Wales.

“Far too many lives are lost to domestic fire in Wales and I will be proud to live a country that says no more to the personal and financial devastation this causes. Sprinklers really do act as a fire fighter in the home, ready and waiting 24/7. Furthermore, you’re about as likely to win the lottery jackpot as you are to be the victim of a faulty sprinkler and its telling that nobody has died as a result of fire in a home fitted with sprinklers in the UK.

“It has been a pleasure to work with colleagues in both Wales and Westminster as the whole process has served to raise awareness around what is often an unchampioned issue. With a UK price tag of 7bn per year, our current approach is unsustainable and I am confident that, if successful, this legislation will save money, property and crucially save lives across Wales.”

Other news from Vale of Clwyd Labour

• Labour AM calls on Welsh Assembly to promote local produce - 29 September 2010
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• Teachers and pupils praised for exam success in Wales - 22 August 2010