South Yorkshire Fire Service

HC Deb 30 October 1995 vol 265 cc71-2W

Mr. Redmond

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what amendment is necessary to the Fire Services Act 1947 to enable South Yorkshire fire service to receive funding for a dedicated rescue vehicle; and if he will make a statement. [40002]

Mr. Kirkhope

Under section 1 of the Fire Services Act 1947 a fire authority has a duty to make provision for fire fighting purposes and, in particular, to secure the services of a fire brigade and equipment in order to meet efficiently all normal requirements. Section 3(1)(e) of the Act gives the fire authority discretionary powers to employ its brigade and use its equipment for purposes other than fire fighting. Fire authorities have been able to provide such services from within their existing resources.