Dr. Guestasked the Home Secretary whether his attention has been called to a case of indiscipline in the fire services after a recent incident; and whether the regular fire brigade or the auxiliary fire services were concerned?
§ Mr. H. MorrisonThe alleged case of indiscipline was unfortunately not reported until a considerable time after the incident. The allegations have been brought to the notice of the London Fire Brigade and investigations are proceeding. I am informed that it has so far not been practicable to identify the persons concerned or to confirm the allegations. I will communicate with my hon. Friend as soon as possible.
Dr. Guestasked the Home Secretary whether he has any announcement to make with regard to improvements in the conditions of payment for injury and sickness of the auxiliary fire services?
§ Mr. MorrisonNo, Sir.
§ Mr. Rhys Daviesasked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that some members of the Home Guard are being pressed by employers to undertake fire-watching duties on their employers' premises; and will he take steps to make it clear to such employers that this must not continue?
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§ Mr. MorrisonI have already made it clear in a memorandum, which has been widely circulated to occupiers of business premises, that members of the Home Guard are exempted from duties under the Fire Prevention (Business Premises) Order and must not be included for such duties unless they volunteer. At the same time adequate defence against incendiary attacks is of such national importance that I hope Home Guards will, when their other duties permit, render all the assistance they can at premises where they work.