§ Mr. Tony BanksTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what information he has regarding proposals to close six London fire stations; and if he will make a statement.
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§ Mr. HurdI understand that London fire brigade's chief fire officer has recently completed a review of fire risk categorisation and standards of fire cover. The chief fire officer has yet to present his report and findings to the London fire and civil defence authority. Her Majesty's chief inspector of fire services was consulted by the chief fire officer about the methodology used in the review.
A fire authority which proposes to close a fire station is required to seek my approval to the closure under section 19 of the Fire Service Act 1947. No application for approval has yet been made. I remain committed to maintaining nationally recommended standards of fire cover.