§ 43. Sir D. Rentonasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what steps are being taken to ensure that Civil Defence and Auxiliary Fire Service equipment in Home Office stores does not deteriorate; how often it is inspected and turned over; and what will be the cost of maintaining it in such stores in 1969–70.
§ Mr. Merlyn ReesThe equipment is stored and maintained in conditions designed to prevent deterioration. Inspection is carried out at intervals which vary according to the nature of the equipment. The cost of storage and maintenance in 1969–70 is estimated to be£1.6 million.
§ 44. Sir D. Rentonasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he is aware that much of the Civil Defence and Auxiliary Fire Service equipment in Home Office stores would be of use to local authorities for dealing with peacetime emergencies; and whether he will reconsider the policy of holding it in Home Office stores.
§ Mr. Merlyn ReesI am aware of the value of some of this equipment for peacetime emergencies and have arranged for stocks to be held in regional Home Office stores, to be drawn upon when needed. This is a more efficient and economical arrangement than the issue to local authorities of a wide range of items, many of which might never be put to use.