Timothy Murphy wrote:

It makes one wonder if the fuses in UK plugs are really necessary.


UK plug fuses are there to reduce (but not eliminate) the risk of fire
caused by an appliance. They don't protect people, as you would be
dead long before a fuse blew.

Mainland European installations have relied on RCDs for many years. An
RCD protects people, not appliances, so you aren't likely to be
electrocuted thanks to a flimsy plug, although there may be a slightly
higher fire risk (or so I am told).