§ Mr. Molloyasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what procedures and facilities exist to enable contact with local authorities in general and London boroughs, in particular, at any time in the event of emergency situations; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Denis HowellThe Department has experienced no difficulty over getting in touch with local authorities by telephone in emergencies. Similarly, local authorities are aware of the telephone numbers of the Department's headquarters and regional office some of which are available 24 hours a day, particularly in an emergency. We are satisfied with these arrangements and are confident that alternative means of communication would be found if telephones were not available.