§ Mr. Bill MichieTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he is satisfied with the progress being made in the preparation of fire brigade war plans; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Douglas HoggFire brigade war emergency planning in England and Wales is under review in conjunction with Her Majesty's inspectorate of fire services. It is expected that initial findings will be available in early 1989.
§ Mr. Bill MichieTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what auxiliary fire equipment held in store for civil defence purposes is available in emergency to organisations other than local authority fire services; what restrictions are placed on its use; and what arrangements are made for the crewing of the appliances.
§ Mr. Douglas HoggAuxiliary fire equipment held for civil defence purposes, including "Green Goddess" appliances, pipes, hoses and other ancillary equipment can be made available on loan to any competent organisation or authority which may be responsible for dealing with emergencies. They would not normally be available in other than exceptional circumstances. Restrictions apply so as to preclude modification of the equipment or loan to a third party without Home Office consent; and a charge would normally be made. Arrangements for the crewing of appliances would normally be a matter for the borrowing organisation.