HL Deb 18 January 1993 vol 541 cc70-1WA
The Earl of Shrewsbury

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether, in the light of the recent Windsor Castle fire, they have a disaster pre-planning policy for government buildings, buildings of national historic interest, and the contents thereof.

Viscount Astor

Responsibility for fire protection planning policy in government buildings and historic buildings rests with the government department or other body responsible for the building. To assist government departments the Department of the Environment produces regularly updated guidance on all aspects of fire prevention, which includes particular reference to historic buildings, salvage and damage control. Advice is also given in the guide Heritage Under Fire, available from the Fire Protection Association. The need for further advice will be considered in the light of the inquiry into fire protection measures at the Royal Palaces set up by my right honourable friend the Secretary of State for National Heritage.