Gordon Banks secures debate on Looped Blind Cords in Westminster this week

13 March 2008

Ochil & South Perthshire MP Gordon Banks has secured a debate in the House of Commons this week on the issue of a possible ban on looped blind cords. The debate comes about after the death of Menstrie toddler, Muireann McLaughlin who was killed when she became entangled in a blind cord at her home last month.

Local MP Gordon Banks has also welcomed a campaign launched by the Alloa Advertiser to call for a ban. As well as Wednesday’s debate, Mr Banks has sought the support of his Parliamentary colleagues in the form of presenting an Early Day Motion which already has the support of 18 other MP’s.

Mr Banks will also raise the issue with Baroness Morgan in Westminster who has responsibility for the British Standards Institute. He will call for a new British Standard for blind manufacturers.

Mr Banks said – “I hope a change in the acceptable design standards of blinds can be achieved so that no other family has to experience the tragedy that has been visited upon the McLaughlin’s.”

“Safety groups believe that looped blind cords kill up to two people per year in the UK but the number may in fact be greater. However everyone agrees that this is an unacceptable figure. I would urge all parents to cut their cords now. My campaign at Westminster will seek to ensure that there is a wholesale change in the industry. Fellow MP’s have already backed my campaign by signing the Early Day Motion and I hope to build on this support during my debate where I will urge the Minister to consider very carefully the tragic consequences that these blinds can bring.”

“These cords have been banned in the US for over ten years and since 2004 in Australia and sadly we have not followed suit here in the UK. I will be putting the point across forcefully that we need urgent action taken here in the UK to ensure that this tragedy is never repeated.

“This change must be universal so that reputable companies do not find themselves priced out of the market by companies not adhering to the changes.”

“A voluntary system of self regulation wouldn't be universal and would not eradicate these needless deaths.”

Notes to Editor

The Debate will take place in Westminster Hall on Wednesday 12 March 2008 at 4 pm in Westminster Hall