§ 22. Mr. R. C. Morrisonasked the Home Secretary whether his attention has been called to a recent ruling in the Chancery Division in the case of Fire Brigades Union v. Billingham-on-Tees, that firemen doing ambulance and other duties are not wholly and permanently employed on fire-brigade duties; and, in view of the anxiety of many firemen that this ruling may affect their pension rights under the Fire Brigades Pensions Act, 1925, will he make an early statement on the position?
§ Sir S. HoareI have obtained a transcript of the judgment referred to, from which it appears that the decision was based on the particular circumstances of the individual case. I am advised that its application to other fire brigades depends upon the local conditions of service, but in view of the importance of the general issues raised, I propose to take an early opportunity of considering them in consultation with representatives of the local authorities and of the fire service.