To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government what charges the Fire and Rescue Service may make for pumping water out of commercial premises which have flooded; and if she will make a statement. (180524)

[holding answer 21 January 2008]: English Fire and Rescue Authorities (FRAs) can charge for the provision of services other than fire-fighting services under Section 19 of the Fire and Rescue Services Act 2004. This includes the provision or removal of water.

It is a matter for the individual fire and rescue authority concerned to determine its policy on costs and charges for pumping out commercial premises.