§ Mr. Wigleyasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he is satisfied that the distribution of the emergency fire-fighting resources gives fair coverage to those rural and semi-rural areas where the strike has closed down normal fire-fighting provisions; and, in particular, if he is satisfied with the emergency cover available in the Arfon Borough Council area.
§ Mr. Merlyn ReesAs I explained in my statement on 9th November—[Vol. 938, c. 672–3]—the Government have a duty to do all that they can to protect life and property in the situation which faces us. With the assistance which the Government have provided, fire authorities will provide the best fire cover possible in the circumstances. But I am under no illusions that the assistance which has been provided can match that provided by the regular fire service, in the Arfon group of stations in Gwynedd and elsewhere.