PAPER D

FIRE AND PUBLIC SAFETY SELECT COMMITTEE – 19 JANUARY 2004

THE FIRE AND RESCUE SERVICE – DRAFT NATIONAL FRAMEWORK

REPORT OF THE CHIEF FIRE OFFICER

REASON FOR SELECT COMMITTEE CONSIDERATION

In the White Paper “Our Fire and Rescue Service” the ODPM stated they would produce a “National Fire and Rescue Framework” to provide the context for the overall work and direction of the service. The ODPM has now published the draft National Framework for consultation. The consultation period closes on 12 March 2004.

ACTION REQUIRED BY THE SELECT COMMITTEE

1. To form a task group to consider the draft National Framework and make comments to the Portfolio Holder for him to consider for inclusion in the Authority’s response to the ODPM.

2. To note those requirements in the draft National Framework that will impact upon this Fire Authority and instruct the Chief Fire Officer to include proposals for addressing such requirements in the Service Plan for 2005/06.

BACKGROUND

The ODPM published the White Paper “Our Fire and Rescue Service” in June 2003. The White Paper refers to a National Fire and Rescue Framework. The Queen’s speech in November 2003 included an announcement that there is to be a Fire and Rescue Service Bill in the Government’s forthcoming legislative programme. It is clear that this new legislation will place a duty upon the Secretary of State to produce a National Fire and Rescue Framework.

It is also clear that the Bill will include powers of intervention for the Secretary of State should Fire Authorities act contrary to the National Framework.

A full copy of the draft National Framework has been placed in the Members’ Room and is also available electronically from www.odpm.gov.uk/stellent/groups/odpm_fire/documents/page/odpm_fire_026176.pdf

A list of the Requirements the National Framework will place on Fire Authorities is attached as Appendix A to this report.

CONSULTATION PROCESS

The draft National Framework is a consultation document published by the ODPM.

FINANCIAL, LEGAL, CRIME AND DISORDER IMPLICATIONS

There are no financial, legal or crime and disorder implications in responding to this consultation process.

APPENDICES ATTACHED

Appendix A Requirements on Fire Authorities.

BACKGROUND PAPERS USED IN THE PREPARATION OF THIS REPORT

The White Paper – Our Fire and Rescue Service ODPM 2003.

Contact Point: Richard Hards, Chief Fire Officer, ' 823199, e-mail [email protected]

RICHARD HARDS

Chief Fire Officer