HC Deb 15 December 1977 vol 941 cc348-9W
43. Mr. Goodhart

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he will make a statement about the role of the Metropolitan Police during the firemen's strike.

Mr. Merlyn Rees

The possible need for assistance to fire authorities was drawn to the attention of chief officers of police as part of the contingency plans which were made to deal with the consequences of a firemen's strike. In addition to the duties which normally fall to the police, the Metropolitan Police have responded by assessing the action needed on receipt of emergency calls and by escorting fire appliances.

47. Mr. Hooson

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what steps have been taken to train Service personnel at present engaged in fire fighting and who have no previous experience of using breathing apparatus, in the use of this apparatus.

Mr. Merlyn Rees

None. I refer the hon. and learned Member to the statement which I made on 21st November—[Vol. 939, c. 1100–2]—about the use by Service men of breathing appaartus and other equipment ordinarily used by regular firemen.

Rear-Admiral Morgan-Giles

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many members of the Fire Service are currently on strike.

Mr. Merlyn Rees

About 27,000 in England and Wales.