A CAMPAIGN to reduce scalding injuries was launched at the House of Commons today.

Wakefield MP Mary Creagh wants to see a change in the law so that thermostatic valves are fitted in all new and refurbished homes to prevent hot bath water scalding.

Some 600 people a year suffer severe bath water scalds, three quarters of whom are children.

Fifteen pensioners a year die from burns from bath water. Ms Creagh will today table a Private Member's Ten Minute Rule Bill in the House of Commons.

Ms Creagh said: "We need to change the law to stop these horrific accidents from happening.

"Boiling bath water causes terrible injuries for children and pensioners because their skin is thinner and they are less able to get out of a superheated bath. Hot water burns like fire.

"Scotland has changed its law to protect people - why can't we?"

Actress Amanda Redman, who suffered a scalding accident as a teenager, was also in the Commons for the launch.

Ms Creagh's campaign is supported by Age Concern, The British Burns Association, the Child Accident Prevention Trust, the Children's Fire and Burn Trust, Help The Aged and the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents.