Vince Cable

A block of social housing - Palgrave House, in Whitton, is to be subject to special fire checks after the fire in a block of flats in Camberwell which are of similar design. Palgrave House is owned by Paragon Housing - better known to local residents as Richmond Churches Housing and contains 24, 2 bedroom, maisonettes in a four storey block. There is no danger involved but the social landlord is carrying out extra checks and will adapt the design if necessary.

Vincent Cable said: "the Camberwell fire appears to have been particularly serious because of its "scissor block" design which is the same as at Palgrave House. It is right and sensible that checks be carried out and I understand that tenants have already been informed. Unfortunately a lot of social housing is built to standards which would not be acceptable today and, if fire risk is involved, it is essential to act on any warnings".