Grenfell report says rules not fit for purpose

A SCATHING review in the wake of the Grenfell Tower blaze has slammed fire safety laws as “not fit for purpose”.

Former Health and Safety Executive head Dame Judith Hackitt demanded a change of culture to prevent residents living in death-traps.

Her review for the Government said enforcement is “too weak”, rules too complex, that “what is being designed is not what is being built” and there are “inadequate” systems for residents to complain. She also raised questions over the “competence” of high-rise builders.

The interim report is the fullest study since the blaze that killed 71 in June.

Grenfell’s local MP, Labour’s Emma Dent Coad, said it “vindicated” fears raised by residents. She added that more than 200 children affected remain in B&Bs, which was “illegal”. Communities Secretary Sajid Javid said a vow to give everyone temporary places within three weeks was met, adding: “Over the six months… we have tried at every stage to offer permanent and different types of temporary accommodation.

“There are still too many families in emergency accommodation and we will continue to do whatever we can.”