§ 37. Mr. Awberyasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many fire brigades are now below the required standard of efficiency; what steps are being taken to improve this service; when the joint working committee of the fire services invited him to hold an inquiry into the fire services; and what was his reply.
§ Mr. RentonAlthough a number of fire brigades in England and Wales have been unable to recruit up to establishment, no brigade has failed to maintain an acceptable standard of efficiency. Improvements are constantly sought by all concerned with the fire service, including the local fire authorities, the members of brigades, the Central Fire Brigades Advisory Council and the Home Office. My right hon. Friend has received no request for an independent inquiry from the National Joint Council of Local Authorities Fire Brigades, which is responsible for pay and hours of duty in the service. He has, however, this afternoon received a letter from the National Association of Fire Officers and the Fire Brigades Union.