§ 29. Mr. William Hannanasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will specify, and state the number of, the Statutes containing provisions in respect of fire prevention requirements.
§ Mr. Buchanan-SmithI would refer the hon. Gentleman to Appendices E and F of the Report of the Departmental Committee on the Fire Service—The Holroyd Report, Cmnd. 4371. In addition there is the Fire Precautions Act 1971.
§ Mr. HannanIs the hon. Gentleman aware that that Answer is certainly not 438 appreciated? In view of the over-riding dangerous situation of many buildings in Glasgow and the frequency of fires, is there not a real need for clarity of the situation by defining the responsibility and powers of the proper authorities for fire prevention? Will the hon. Gentleman take some action in the matter?
§ Mr. Buchanan-SmithI share the hon. Gentleman's concern. This whole matter of fire prevention is very important, particularly in the light of recent events. The number of Statutes involved is considerable, though a measure of consolidation has been carried out in the Fire Precautions Act 1971. However, the responsibility for this matter rests firmly with the fire authorities. I have no evidence that fire authorities are unaware of or are unwilling to carry out their responsibilities in this direction.