To ask the Deputy Prime Minister if he will make a statement on the discussions which he has had with fire service (a) employers and (b) unions on contingency plans in the event of a conflict in Iraq and the suspension of (i) action under the current dispute and (ii) proposed changes in working practices. [103470]

My right. hon. Friend the Deputy Prime Minister has been available to talk to all sides since this dispute began and has met both the employers and the Fire Brigade union on a number of occasions. He has undertaken to keep the House informed of developments.