§ Mr. SpearingTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will make a statement concerning future funding of the Fire Service college and the plans of Her Majesty's Government for its continued service to the public.
§ Mr. John PattenWe are consulting the Association of County Councils, the Association of Metropolitan Authorities and the Central Fire Brigades Advisory Council on our proposals to introduce in stages new arrangements whereby fire brigades will be charged directly for the courses which their officers attend at the Fire Service college. We intend that the college should retain its premier position in the training of fire officers to deliver a fully effective service to the public.