asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what proportion of the existing fire brigade strength throughout the country consists of men who entered the service in 1939; how many retirements are expected during the next five years; and how many men were recruited to the service in each of the last three years.

Approximately 173 members, that is 8 per cent. of the present whole-time strength, entered the Fire Service in 1939.Two hundred and one whole-time members are due to retire from Scottish brigades during the next five years.Particulars of recruitment to the Fire Service in each year are included in the annual reports of Her Majesty's Inspector of Fire Services for Scotland, published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office.