On Wed, 01 Jan 2020 12:37:20 +0000 (GMT), "Dave Plowman (News)"
wrote:

In article ,
Scott wrote:
When the ring main system was introduced (in 1947, I believe), the
correct fuse was used for each appliance. Why have we moved away from
this commonsense arrangement and apparently degraded a safety feature?

Because to know what the correct size fuse is, you'd need to know the
cable size. Somewhat easier with removable plugs, but guesswork with
moulded types.

How is it 'guesswork'? The manufacturer must know when they select
the fuse.

And perhaps most only want to get the thing working again, so will fit any
fuse they have to hand, or can buy easily. Most likely 13 amp.

Okay, but any sensible person would replace like for like. You could
say the same about 3A fuses. By your logic all electrical appliances
should be fitted with a 13A cable just in case someone decides to fit
a 13A fuse at a later stage.