HC Deb 15 June 1961 vol 642 c66W
62. Mr. Spriggs

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what has been the labour turnover for each 12 months in the British fire service since 1955, and up to the latest convenient date in 1961; and what plans he has for recruiting more of the right type of men.

Mr. Renton

The figures are given below. No figures for 1961 are yet available. As regards the second part of the Question, recruitment is primarily the responsibility of individual fire authorities, who are, I know, fully aware of the importance of obtaining enough men of the right kind.

Whole-time firemen (England and Wales and Scotland) Year ended 31st December
1956 1957 1958 1959 1960
Recruits 1,691 1,626 1,502 1,706 1,919
Retirements, resignations, etc. 1,058 958 865 1,051 1,509
Net gain or loss +633 +668 +637 +655 +410

Mr. Spriggs

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what conclusions he has reached regarding the proposed commission of inquiry into the fire services conditions of service and rates of pay, following his discussion with local authorities; and if he will now agree to such a commission being set up.

Mr. R. A. Butler

I would refer the hon. Member to the Answer given to a Question by the right hon. Member for Smethwick (Mr. Gordon Walker) today.

Forward to