To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government how many local fire authorities have signed up to the FireGuard contract; and if she will make a statement. (232429)

FireGuard is a collaborative procurement between 33 fire and rescue authorities to provide back- up emergency cover. We understand that no authority is currently signed up to the contract.

To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government what arrangement has been made for the provision of fire cover in periods of industrial action in the absence of FireGuard; and which organisations will provide that cover. (232637)

The provision of fire cover during periods of industrial action is the responsibility of fire and rescue authorities. It is for them to determine the level of emergency cover they regard as appropriate.