Fire and Rescue Service Equipment (Purchasing)

HC Deb 21 July 2004 vol 424 c320W

14. Ann Winterton

To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what changes his Department has implemented to the purchasing of fire and rescue service equipment. [185321]

Phil Hope

The Office of the Deputy Prime Minister has been working with fire and rescue authorities and suppliers to develop a National Procurement Strategy that aims to deliver improved cost effectiveness, to maintain competition and stimulate innovation. In the meantime, fire service circulars issued in 2003 and 2004 gave advice on the arrangements to be used pending publication of the strategy.