§ 22. Sir J. Gilmourasked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many emergency planning officers are now employed by local authorities in Scotland.
§ Mr. Buchanan-SmithEleven Scottish civil defence authorities have indicated that they are employing or have engaged an emergencies planning officer: 15 authorities at present employ civil defence planning officers on a part-time basis and the remaining seven authorities have vacancies.
§ Sir J. GilmourCan my hon. Friend confirm that after the reorganisation of local government the provisions for the use of these officers will continue?
§ Mr. Buchanan-SmithYes. Indeed, the authorities which will form the parts of that new region for home defence purposes are being encouraged to consult together and, where appropriate, to make joint appointments of emergency planning officers. We attach considerable importance to them.