§ Mr. Gouldasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what steps he proposes to take to ensure that the proposals contained in the London fire and civil defence authority scheme for the reorganisation of the London fire brigade maintain a single unified fire service for London; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Giles ShawWe are satisfied that the authority's proposals will maintain a single unified fire service for London.
§ Mr. Gouldasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will make a statement on the application of his Department's criteria relating to overprovision to the existing level of fire cover by the London fire brigade; whether any reductions in the present level are contemplated; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Giles ShawIn considering the establishment scheme of the London Fire and Civil Defence Authority for 1986–87 we were concerned to ensure that it would provide adequate protection from fire in line with nationally agreed and recommended standards, and consistent with the need for economy, efficiency and effectiveness. My right hon. Friend approved 6,849 whole-time uniformed posts at 1 April 1986 and a number of supernumerary posts which the authority proposes should be reduced by natural wastage from the brigade strength.