asked Her Majesty's Government:What action they intend to take following the agreement made at the Leeds Castle meeting of the Central Local Partnership concerning the review of emergency planning. [HL732]

My right honourable friend the Deputy Prime Minister proposed that the arrangements for emergency planning in England and Wales be reviewed and we have set up a steering group to take forward this review. It will identify strengths and weaknesses in the current arrangements for emergency planning; suggest ways in which the community preparedness for emergencies can be enhanced; consult widely with stakeholders and provide advice to Ministers on the result, of the consultation.