Ochil & South Perthshire MP Gordon Banks has been left disappointed by the Government’s response to his calls for a Looped Blind Cord ban and the calls made by Alloa Sheriff David Mackie after a recent Fatal Accident Enquiry.

In response to a Parliamentary Question by Mr Banks,  Business Minister Kevin Brennan responded by saying –

The Department has considered seriously all the recommendations made by Sheriff Mackie. We feel his recommendations regarding regulations and labelling are more than adequately dealt with under the Machinery Directive as well as the General Product Safety Directive. The recommendation relating to raising public awareness about the potential hazards internal blind cords can cause is being taken forward with the blind and shutter industry and others. The Department does not intend to respond formally to the sheriff.

Speaking after the response, Mr Banks said –

“The Minister’s response is extremely disappointing and the time taken to reach a decision has not been helpful either.”

“I cannot agree with the Minister’s assertion that Sheriff Mackie’s recommendations are already adequately covered under other directives. If the regulations clearly demonstrated safe practice then perhaps the death of toddlers such as Muireann McLaughlin could have been avoided.  Action is required now.”

“I will be stepping up this campaign to put increasing pressure on the Government to regulate more firmly in this area because any industry led change runs the risk of being piecemeal and may continue to put the lives of children and vulnerable people at risk.”

“I am in the process of launching another online petition on my website as well as applying for another debate in the House of Commons.  I hope the power of public opinion will press the Government into action on this important issue.”

Notes

The full text of the Parliamentary Question can be found at –

http://www.theyworkforyou.com/wrans/?id=2010-01-14a.310599.h&s=speaker%3A12005#g310599.q0