§ Mr. WorthingtonTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what statutory obligation the fire brigade has to attend flooding, road accidents and other non-fire related incidents. [2680]
§ Lord James Douglas-HamiltonA fire authority is empowered, under section 3(1)(e) of the Fire Services Act 1947, to employ the fire brigade maintained by it, or to use any equipment so maintained, for purposes other than firefighting purposes. There is no statutory obligation on such an authority to do so.
§ Mr. WorthingtonTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what consideration is given to the activities of the fire brigade that are not related to firefighting or prevention in determining its funding. [2681]
702W
§ Lord James Douglas-HamiltonThe principal determinants of fire service funding are the personnel, fire stations, and equipment required to provide fire cover. Activities not related to firefighting are undertaken largely with those resources, but any additional requirements in relation to these activities are also taken into account by my right hon. Friend.