§ Mr. RapsonTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department (1) what steps are currently being taken by the Fire Service to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of virtual reality computer simulation in operational command training; [50761]
436W(2) what steps his Department will take on the forthcoming report of the Chief Fire Officer and others on the nationwide trial of virtual reality computer simulation training. [50758]
§ Mr. George HowarthThe contribution that multi-media systems can make to the training and assessment of fire officers in the knowledge and skills they require to be competent in their professional role, particularly in the area of operational command, is recognised.
Her Majesty's Inspectorate of Fire Services is already pursuing work with the fire service to develop the concept and principles of operational command appropriate for fire service officers. This includes an on-going examination of computer simulation systems which could support necessary training, and of reports of trials that are undertaken.