National Register of Electricians 2026-01-12
2026-01-12
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
Electricians are currently governed by voluntary clubs, with near-zero enforcement for part P regulations. There are approximately 20,000 electrical fires annually.
Gas installers must legally register under a Health and Safety Executive-owned scheme, yet electricians remain governed by voluntary clubs despite the risks of around 20,000 annual electrical fires. The October 2026 rule changes will address qualifications but not enforcement. Does my hon. Friend agree that there must be legal protections for electricians, just as there are for gas installers, to safeguard residents?
The Government take electrical safety very seriously. However, the risks associated with gas and electrical work are different; circuit breakers can shut down electrical systems in milliseconds to protect people from shock or fire, whereas faulty gas systems could result in an explosion or carbon monoxide poisoning. The health and safety regulations and electricity at work regulations already exist, alongside the IET wiring regulations as a code of practice.
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Assessment & feedback
The Minister did not address the specific ask for legal protections similar to those for gas installers.
Risks Are Different
Existing Regulations
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
Electricians not registered with any organisation can put people's lives at risk.
The House Builders Association covers electricians and their work. Councils also have a role in identifying those who should be registered but are not. What has been done to encourage unregistered electricians to register with an electrical organisation?
All practitioners should be registered and there should be safety. I will write to the hon. Member with specific details to answer his question.
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Assessment & feedback
The Minister avoided giving specific actions taken by the Government and stated she would provide more detail in writing.
Will Write To The Hon. Member
Response accuracy