asked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster when he last held discussions with trade and consumer representatives on flammability of domestic furniture; and if he will make a statement.

I met representatives of the industry yesterday. I am currently evaluating the very extensive responses, including the views of consumer interests, to our consultation on the proposal to make new Upholstered Furniture (Safety) Regulations on the basis of a classification and code of practice approach to match resistance, rather than on the basis of direct testing. I shall make a further statement when I have completed my review of this consultation and other matters needing to be taken into account in the new regulations.