HC Deb 08 February 1972 vol 830 cc351-2W
Mr. Michael Cocks

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what is the policy of the Home Office on the appointment of a chief fire officer already serving as deputy chief fire officer in the same authority.

Mr. Sharples

It is generally desirable for a chief fire officer to be appointed from outside the brigade unless he has already had extensive experience in other brigades. If the deputy chief officer has the necessary qualifications and experience, and the fire authority considers him to be the best candidate for the post, approval to the appointment is not normally withheld.