§ Mrs. Wiseasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what arrangements he has made for dealing with accidents and incidents in or involving sewers, which would normally be dealt with by firemen, during the firemen's strike.
§ Mr. Denis HowellWater authorities and local authorities, in association with fire authorities and chief constables, have been advised to review their emergency procedures and to provide additional advice and assistance for dealing with incidents involving sewers that could put water services at risk. It is not practicable to give detailed advice to authorities on how they should deal with accidents in sewers, they are all expected to have and use safety and rescue apparatus in accordance with the recommended Code of Practice for Safety in Sewers. In the present circumstances, it is expected that they will make the best use of the experience and resources at their disposal.