LONDON FIRE BRIGADE: OPERATIONAL COVER

HL Deb 18 July 1991 vol 531 cc17-8WA

Lord Jenkins of Putney

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they will resist proposals to reduce the services of the London Fire Brigade in view of the increased demand.

Earl Ferrers

Any proposals by fire authorities to close fire stations or to reduce the number of operational firefighters or firefighting appliances require the approval of my right honourable friend the Home Secretary under Section 19 of the Fire Services Act 1947. One such proposal from the London Fire and Civil Defence Authority, seeking approval to the removal of 62 operational staff and one foam tender from the London Fire Brigade's establishment scheme, is under consideration. In deciding whether to grant approval under Section 19, we require to be satisfied that fire authorities will continue to be satisfied that fire authorities will continue to be able to meet the nationally recommended minimum standards of fire cover.