asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will specify, and state the number of, the Statutes containing provisions in respect of fire prevention requirements.

I would refer the hon. Gentleman to Appendices E and F of the Report of the Departmental Committee on the Fire Service—The Holroyd Report, Cmnd. 4371. In addition there is the Fire Precautions Act 1971.

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that that Answer is certainly not appreciated? In view of the over-riding dangerous situation of many buildings in Glasgow and the frequency of fires, is there not a real need for clarity of the situation by defining the responsibility and powers of the proper authorities for fire prevention? Will the hon. Gentleman take some action in the matter?

I share the hon. Gentleman's concern. This whole matter of fire prevention is very important, particularly in the light of recent events. The number of Statutes involved is considerable, though a measure of consolidation has been carried out in the Fire Precautions Act 1971. However, the responsibility for this matter rests firmly with the fire authorities. I have no evidence that fire authorities are unaware of or are unwilling to carry out their responsibilities in this direction.