John Healey responds to terms of reference for independent inquiry into building regulations following Grenfell Tower fire

John
Healey MP, Labour’s Shadow Secretary of State for Housing, responding to the release of terms
of reference for the independent inquiry into building regulations following
the Grenfell Tower fire, said:

“Ministers
have been off the pace at every stage in responding to the terrible Grenfell
Tower fire.

“While
better late than never, it’s now eleven weeks since Grenfell and over four
years on from two Coroners’ reports into previous high rise fires recommended
an overhaul of building regulations. Ministers promised a review in May 2013
but have failed to act since.  

“Rather
than waiting for the findings of this inquiry, Ministers should start acting on
these existing recommendations immediately and incorporate any proposals from
Dame Judith Hackitt.

“More
broadly, Ministers must now use this inquiry to ensure that our system of fire
checks and regulations has the clarity, accountability and proper standards
needed so that no-one feels unsafe in their home.”