§ Mr. BurstowTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions (1) when the National Liaison Group established to prepare a code of conduct facilitating better co-operation between the water industry and fire services will complete its study; and if he will make a statement; [45729]
(2) if he will list the membership of the National Liaison Group established to prepare a code of conduct facilitating better co-operation between the water industry and fire services, indicating which of the members represent the fire services; [45730]
(3) if the National Liaison Group established to prepare a code of conduct facilitating better co-operation between the water industry and fire services, is consulting (a) insurance organisations and (b) the fire protection industry in its study. [45731]
§ Angela EagleThe National Liaison Group, which is chaired by my Department, does not have appointed members. It is made up of representatives from the water50W industry nominated by Water UK, from the fire services nominated by the Chief and Assistant Chief Fire Officers' Association (CACFOA), from the Local Government Association and from the Home Office. The main aims of the Group, which have been agreed by the members, are further to improve communication between the water industry and the fire services at national and local levels. The proposed Code of Practice is seen as one way of achieving this aim and should be in place by the end of the year. There are no proposals at present to consult with insurance representatives or any other bodies that may have an interest, but I will ensure that my officials raise the question of consultation at the next meeting of the Group.