HC Deb 09 March 1995 vol 256 c302W
23. Ms Coffey

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what is his estimate of the number of local fire stations programmed for closure following the reduction in fire authority budgets.

Mr. Nicholas Baker

My right hon. and learned Friend has made no such estimate. Any fire authority wishing to reduce the operational capability of its brigade, including the number of fire stations, must seek his approval under section 19 of the Fire Services Act 1947. His practice is to grant approval only where he is satisfied that the nationally recommended minimum standards of fire cover will be maintained.

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