HC Deb 15 February 1984 vol 54 c227W
Mr. Ernie Ross

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many local authorities have decided on a rural rather than an urban area in which to establish emergency control centres; and if he will list them.

Mr. Ancram

It is for each local authority to decide the location of an emergency centre, having regard to the requirements of the Civil Defence (General Local Authority Functions) (Scotland) Regulations 1983 and to local circumstances and needs. Most of the authorities which have so far identified premises for use as emergency centres have selected accommodation in their peacetime administrative offices.

Mr. Ernie Ross

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will list those local authorities in Scotland which have agreed to provide emergency control centres which are required under Civil Defence Regulations; and what expenditure has been allocated by each local authority for this purpose.

Mr. Ancram

Most regional, islands and district councils identified premises to be used as emergency centres before these centres became mandatory under the 1983 regulations. For details of those authorities which have incurred or proposed expenditure, I refer the hon. Member to the answer which I gave him on 2 February at c.303. In addition, Tayside regional council has recently approved a project at an estimated cost of £360,000. Discussions with local authorities about the implementation of the regulations, including the provision of emergency centres and the level of financial support, are now taking place.

Mr. Ernie Ross

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether those local authorities in Scotland which are intending to establish emergency control centres are ensuring that the design of those centres will include provision for containing fallout, fire and blast damage.

Mr. Ancram

Local authorities are aware of the need for their emergency centres to have appropriate protection against fallout, fire and blast. To qualify for grant assistance, the proposals submitted by authorities are required to satisfy certain standards of protection.