§ Mr. EvansTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills, what preparations she has made to ensure the safety and continuity of service to the public in the event of a firefighters' strike; and what the cost is to the Department of these actions. [77656]
§ Mr. Stephen TwiggMy Department has set up an Incident Team representing all policy and services directorates led by a senior Board member. The Team is liaising closely with central Government to keep abreast of updates on the situation outlined by my right hon. Friend, the Ministery for Local Government and the Regions in his answer to this question of the 28 October 2002Official Report, column 527W. Briefing has been circulated to all Local Education Authorities, colleges and universities. Further communications will be sent as appropriate. Risk Assessments have also been carried out on departmental premises and specific measures introduced to safeguard people—which include large numbers of visitors as well as staff—on strike days.
717W The cost of providing emergency cover will depend on the extent and nature of any industrial action.