Mr. Dayaskedthe Lord Privy Seal whether he can give particulars and make a statement concerning the organisation of auxiliary fire services formed in districts other than the London area; and is it understood that these services should work in close association with the professional fire brigades in their districts?
§ Sir J. AndersonThe organisation of the auxiliary fire services was explained in a memorandum issued by the Home Office in February, 1937, and I am sending the hon. Member a copy of that memorandum. These emergency fire services are designed specifically to supplement the existing peace-time services, and it is of course fundamental to the scheme that there should be close association with the professional fire brigades in the district.
§ Mr. Saltasked the Lord Privy Seal whether he can hasten the supply of the necessary equipment for the Auxiliary Fire Service in Birmingham; and is he aware that delivery of allocations placed as far back as 24th August, 1937, is still incomplete?
§ Sir J. AndersonArrangements were made some time ago with a view to speeding up the supply of fire equipment for all important towns in the country, including Birmingham. Birmingham has for some time past had all the equipment needed for training purposes. It is not the case that any items of equipment allocated as long ago as August, 1937, are still outstanding.