Dr Wayne Mapp National Housing Spokesperson

24 April 2003

Treated timber needed in construction of homes

National has welcomed an interim decision requiring treated timber in new buildings, but is criticising the length of time it is taking the Government to act, says National's Housing Spokesperson Wayne Mapp.

Dr Mapp said the draft determination by Standards New Zealand recommending treated timber be used in all new houses was the right outcome.

"The evidence of the Forest Research Industry, arguably New Zealand's foremost experts on treated timber, that treated timber should be compulsory was compelling.

"National called on the Government to urgently change the Building Code in October, so that no new homes would be built with untreated timber. Our main concern has been the use of untreated timber in exterior framing.

"Instead, Helen Clark dismissed the whole issue as a "media beat-up", leaving home owners angry and bewildered. It has now taken six months to get to a recommendation.

"National's continued pressure on this issue has forced the slow turning Government wheel to finally take this issue seriously," said Dr Mapp.

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