§ Mr. David Ecclesasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether, in view of the dissatisfaction which exists among part-time and retained firemen because the privileges which they had enjoyed before the formation of the N.F.S. have not been restored to them, he will now remove the ban on the ar- 1514 rangement of social events on and from station premises in aid of local and other charities in which the firemen are interested.
§ Mr. EdeI assume that the hon.Al ember is referring to the arrangement under which the only appeals for benevolent objects connected with the National Fire Service, which are allowed on or from National Fire Service premises are those for the Service's own National Benevolent Fund. I am not aware that this arrangement is causing any general dissatisfaction and as at present advised I do not propose to interfere with it.
§ Mr. EcclesMay I ask the Home Secretary whether, if I send him information showing that some units wish to organise these entertainments which they used to be able to do, he will look into the matter?
§ Mr. EdeIf the hon. Member will send me the information or come to see me about the matter, I shall be very happy to discuss it with him.