Emergency Calls

Oral Answers to Questions — European Community – in the House of Commons at 12:00 am on 16 January 1980.

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Photo of Mr Laurie Pavitt Mr Laurie Pavitt , Brent South 12:00, 16 January 1980

asked the Lord Privy Seal what arrangements have been proposed or agreed to within the European Economic Community to harmonise statutory regulations for the recording of urgent calls for fire services, police, and ambulance services in accordance with the arrangements now in existence in France and Germany; and if he will make a statement.

Photo of Hon. Douglas Hurd Hon. Douglas Hurd , Oxon Mid

No arrangements have been agreed to within the Community and I am not aware of any proposals for the harmonisation of recording procedures for such telephone calls.

Photo of Mr Laurie Pavitt Mr Laurie Pavitt , Brent South

Is the Lord Privy Seal aware that Britain is sadly lagging behind in modern technology for very important emergency services? Is he aware that both France and Germany have improved on our efforts? Although that might not come within the province of Common Market harmonisation, will he make representations to the Home Office to bring us up to date?

Photo of Hon. Douglas Hurd Hon. Douglas Hurd , Oxon Mid

The hon. Gentleman has baffled us with his question. He seems to be making a case for harmonisation within the EEC, and perhaps there is such a case. I shall draw the attention of the Secretary of State for the Home Department to the hon. Gentleman's remarks.