Plumbers and plumbing suppliers in the United Kingdom are calling on Government to introduce a scrappage scheme for old boilers.

It is believed a boiler scrappage scheme would encourage their replacement with newer, more efficient models.

The scheme would provide industry with a welcome boost in the current economic climate and help the environment.

Alan Ball, PTS managing director, said: “I believe that it’s important for the Government to pay attention to our industry and consider new proposals to increase demand and ultimately sales.

“Not only could the boiler scrappage scheme result in these financial benefits but it could also help with environmental targets.

“The installation of high efficiency boilers in a larger proportion of homes will help to cut fuel bills whilst increasing demand in all sectors of the industry. As representatives of the industry it’s up to us to push for change and let the Government know that new schemes need to be put in place to incentivise homeowners and boost sales.”

A petition to support the boiler scrappage scheme was set by Mick Williams, managing director of Portsmouth plumbers merchant Williams and Co.

It can be found at http://petitions.number10.gov.uk/boilerscrappage.