http://www.sbsa.gov.uk/current_standards/th_html_2006/bsthd-02.htm#014 "ensure that no barriers to trade in construction products are created"
"The use of expanded functional standards, backed up by detailed guidance, provides a flexible system of control. Consideration of alternative solutions is assisted by the expansion of the functional standards previously used in the building standards regulations to clarify the necessary properties of each building. The need for a formal relaxation of standards is reduced as meeting the full details of given solutions is no longer mandatory. The professional judgement of the verifier, assisted by guidance on questions referred to Scottish Ministers, through the Scottish Building Standards Agency, decides whether a standard is met."
Seems to me they are trying to set minimum standards, while not excluding new methods and products.
