§ Mr. OatenTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions (1) what plans he has to provide inter-operability between emergency services and their radio communications systems; [55468]
(2) which organisations from industry are advising Ministers on the procurement details for the fire and ambulance services for the replacement of their radio communications systems;[55469]
(3) which Department has responsibility for taking decisions on the replacement of radio communication systems for fire and ambulance services; [55466]
(4) what consultations he has had to determine the procurement process for the fire and ambulance service for the replacement of their radio communications systems. [55467]
§ Dr. Whitehead[holding answer 10 May 2002]: DTLR has policy responsibility for fire services in England and Wales and the Department of Health for ambulance services.
The requirements for inter-operability reflect identified needs following the attack on the World Trade Centre. The Presidents of the associations representing the Chief Officers of the emergency services have now agreed a new and enhanced requirement for the inter-operability of radio systems between the services.
On 7 May 2002 I made an announcement about the procurement of a national radio communications system for the Fire Service in England and Wales. DTLR will now be discussing with fire authorities how best to implement the new national strategy. A new specification reflecting this enhanced requirement is being prepared. There will be competitive procurement for the fire services in accordance with EU procurement legislation.