§ Mr. PatnickTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he has received any representations concerning instances where senior fire officers have been appointed on the basis of factors other than their professional competence; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. John PattenSome concern about this is expressed from time to time. My right hon. Friend does prescribe by regulation basic requirements for promotions and appointments in the fire service, but it is fire authorities themselves who have the responsibility for making appointments. In discharging this function, it is clearly most important that authorities appoint those who are professionally best qualified for the posts.