§ Mr. LidingtonTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what contingency plans he has made in relation to the possibility of a national firefighters' strike. [92899]
§ Mr. George HowarthThere are already well-established contingency arrangements for dealing with threats of industrial action in the fire service. These include arrangements, where possible and where needed, for military assistance to fire authorities so that emergency fire cover can be provided. The Government are also ready to consider such other measures as may be appropriate, to discharge their overriding responsibility for ensuring the protection and security of the public.