HC Deb 23 August 1945 vol 413 cc812-3W
Wing-Commander R. Robinson

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what is the present state of the proposed return of the N.F.S. to the control of local authorities; and whether he will first consult the local authorities before making any further changes of personnel among those who originally served under the authority in question

Mr. Ede

As regards the first part of the Question, I would refer the hon. Member to my reply to the Question by my hon. Friend the Member for Abertillery (Mr. Daggar). As regards the second part of the Question, N.F.S. officers are instructed to maintain liaison with local authorities regarding the organisation and operation of the Fire Service in their areas, but I cannot undertake that there should be prior consultation before any and every change which is made in the posting of N.F.S. officers, many of whom are now serving at a distance from the areas of their former fire brigades.

Wing-Commander R. Robinson

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what is the present state of the proposed return of the N.F.S. to the control of local authorities; and whether he will first consult the local authorities before making any further changes of personnel among those who originally served under the authority in question.

Mr. Ede

As regards the first part of the Question, I would refer the hon. Member to my reply to the Question by my hon. Friend the Member for Abertillery (Mr. Daggar). As regards the second part of the Question, N.F.S. officers are instructed to maintain liaison with local authorities regarding the organisation and operation of the Fire Service in their areas, but I cannot undertake that there should be prior consultation before any and every change which is made in the posting of N.F.S. officers, many of whom are now serving at a distance from the areas of their former fire brigades.