HC Deb 26 November 2001 vol 375 cc699-700W
Lawrie Quinn

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will make a statement on emergency planning strategies in Yorkshire and the Humber. [9283]

Mr. Denham

[holding answer 31 October 2001]: Emergency planning strategies are a local matter and, in this instance, are a matter for the responding agencies in Yorkshire and Humber.

Guidance has been issued on emergency planning which promotes the principles of Integrated Emergency Management, under which all organisations likely to be involved in the response, including the emergency services and local authorities, share their plans and participate in strategic meetings, joint exercises and training.

The Cabinet Office Review into the Future of Emergency Planning in England and Wales raises the issue of monitoring local emergency planning services and has invited specific comments and suggestions about it.