§ Captain Ellistonasked the Home Secretary whether he will arrange that, in view of continuing war risks, whole-time trained auxiliaries of the fire military service as engaged in a reserved occupation?
§ Sir J. AndersonThe conditions of enrolment for the Auxiliary Fire Service are such that very few auxiliary firemen are below the age of 25, and I do not anticipate that the withdrawal of those below that age who are medically fit for military service will cause serious difficulty. As regards men in the higher age groups affected by the recent Royal Proclamation, I am obtaining particulars of the numbers affected, and the whole question will be carefully reviewed in the light of this information.
§ Captain Ellistonasked the Home Secretary why the rates of pay authorised for officers of the Auxiliary Fire Service, London, in November last are not yet in operation; and whether the increases indicated will be retrospective as from the date of the order?
§ Sir J. AndersonThe establishment and rates of pay for officers in the London Auxiliary Fire Service were approved on 3rd November last. I understand that the application of these rates by the London County Council has been held up pending a full review of existing appointments, but that they will be applied retrospectively in the case of officers whose appointments are confirmed.