asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Home Department if he is aware that the Tottenham Urban District Council, at the suggestion of the district auditor, has on several occasions requested insurance companies to contribute towards the expenses of the fire brigade when attending fires in the district, but without success; and, in view of the fact that legislation exists in the Metropolis under which insurance companies are required to contribute towards such expenses, whether he will take steps to secure the introduction of legislation extending the Metropolis legislation to the provinces?

Mr. DAVIES:

This is not a subject on which my right hon. Friend would be disposed to suggest legislation.