§ Mr. Newensasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will now intervene in the dispute affecting the ambulance services in Essex to ensure that adequate cover for all normal emergencies is restored at the earliest possible date.
§ Mr. DeakinsDiscussions are continuing between management and unions on this local dispute and I do not think it would be appropriate for me to intervene, but both I and my officials are in close touch with the situation. Normal emergency cover is being provided.
§ Mr. Newensasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what is the normal establishment of ambulances and ambulance men available at each ambulance station in Essex; and what is the present situation.
§ Mr. DeakinsThe establishment for ambulancemen in Essex is 459, the current strength is 437 for the 28 ambulance stations. Station strengths vary from 5 to 36 crew staff. Total vehicle strength for the area is 169 with from one to 12 vehicles for ambulance stations depending on the population served.
A dispute is reducing the number of crews available, mainly in South-East Essex. The availability of manned vehicles fluctuates but normal emergency services are being maintained together with more than half the routine ambulance services.
§ Mr. Newensasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he is satisfied that the ambulance cover provided during the present dispute in Essex is adequate to deal with a major emergency involving a multiple road accident, an air crash or a significant factory accident.
§ Mr. DeakinsI understand that the existing limited services are adequate for normal emergencies but would not necessarily extend to major emergencies. In the event of a major emergency there are standing arrangements for calling on assistance from other areas.