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.”