HC Deb 14 June 1966 vol 729 cc269-70W
Mr. Harry Howarth

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what arrangements have been made for the protection of firemen and policemen against the inhalation of smoke containing radio-active particles in the vicinity of fires involving radio-active material.

Mr. Roy Jenkins

In 1958 respirators for this purpose were supplied to the fire service and the police for use where breathing apparatus was not available. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Scotland and I have now decided that because of their age these respirators should be replaced. Suitable respirators are being purchased from the Ministry of Defence and will be issued free on indefinite loan to fire and police authorities in England, Wales and Scotland. Supplementary Estimates for £63,000 for this purpose will be presented to Parliament in due course.

The provision of this new equipment will not reduce the need for breathing apparatus when dealing with ordinary fires.