§ Mr. BrakeTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what discussions he has had with voluntary organisations delivering emergency services about their ability to provide cover over the millennium period; and what encouragement he has given to such organisations to provide such cover. [96536]
§ Mr. Mike O'BrienThere have been no direct discussions because the use of voluntary organisations in emergencies is a matter for local agencies. Local authorities are aware of the need to examine their arrangements over the millennium period.