§ Mr. Gordon PrenticeTo ask the Deputy Prime Minister at what age firefighters are able to retire on a full pension; and if he will make a statement. [165465]
§ Mr. RaynsfordThe maximum pension is payable after 30 years' service from age 50.
§ Mr. OatenTo ask the Deputy Prime Minister if the Government will en sure that firemen have adequate insurance cover for(a) themselves and (b) their families against the risk of being injured or killed as a result of responding to a terrorist attack. [163119]
§ Mr. RaynsfordThere are provisions within the conditions of service and the fire fighters pensions scheme for awards for injury and death benefit. However, the office of the Deputy Prime Minister has made aware that some insurance companies have been attempting to limit the amount of personal cover available to the fire fighters who may be required to respond to emergencies as a result of terrorist attack. The Government recognise the importance of ensuring that fire responders, including the fire and rescue service, are able to respond with confidence to a full range of emergency situations. That is why the Civil Contingencies Secretariat in the Cabinet Office is currently working with the relevant Departments to establish the extent of the problem and to examine the implications for the emergency services.