§ Mr. Bill MichieTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, further to his reply to the hon. Member for Sheffield, Heeley,Official Report, 27 October 1988, column 321, whether he is satisfied with the progress being made on the preparation of fire brigade war plans; and if he will make a statement about the outcome of his review of this matter.
§ Mr. John PattenInitial findings of the review indicated wide variations between brigades in the level of their war planning. Chief fire officers have been provided with information and guidance on their brigade plans, and encouraging progress has generally been made. Plans will continue to reviewed as part of the wider process of monitoring local authorities' civil defence preparedness.
§ Mr. Bill MichieTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he has received any representations concerning the possible appointment of fire officers as members of the ad hoc working party on emergency communications; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. John PattenYes. However, we are satisfied that relevant fire service interests can be adequately covered through the existing local authority staff membership of the working party and, where necessary, through direct contact with fire staff engaged on civil defence activities.