In the climate of rising thefts of copper pipes (encouraged by newspaper
reports which usually quote the cost of repairs rather than the scrap value
of the pipes stolen), have you noticed that many new build flats have the
gas pipes running externally up the front of the buildings?

Surely a ventilated secure ducting would be more sensible and aesthetically
more pleasing.

The recent explosion of a house in Bradford was allegedly due to a gas pipe
being taken by some kids.