HC Deb 01 July 1954 vol 529 cc1516-7
37. Mr. Erroll

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will circularise the authorities concerned, drawing their attention to the necessity for local liaison between signal boxes controlling level crossings and individual fire stations, so as to prevent level crossing gates being closed against a fire engine when answering a call.

Sir D. Maxwell Fyfe

I do not think that a circular is needed. I am advised that the local fire authorities are fully seized of this problem and make whatever arrangements are practicable.

Mr. Erroll

Cannot the Home Secretary assist fire brigades to make more progress in these matters so that a property will not burn down while the fire brigade is waiting while a shunting engine passes leisurely over the crossing?

Sir D. Maxwell Fyfe

My hon. Friend knows that I shall be glad to look into any particular difficulty.