Question proposed, That the clause stand part of the Bill.

As clause 2 does not extend to Scotland—or Northern Ireland—and presuming that a similar measure does not exist in Scotland, has the Scottish Parliament indicated that if the Bill is passed, it will introduce similar legislation? The Minister said earlier that there is little firefighting provision on the east coast up towards the highlands and I do not know whether there are comparable firefighting facilities in Scotland. I raise the matter out of interest.

As I understand it, the powers extend to England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Scilly Isles and, as the hon. Gentleman said, Scotland is different. The Fire Services Act 1947 is applicable only to England and Wales and Scotland has devolved authority. I hope that that answers the hon. Gentleman's question.

Question put and agreed to.

Clause 5 ordered to stand part of the Bill.

Clause 6 ordered to stand part of the Bill.

Schedules 1 to 3 agreed to.

Bill to be reported, without amendment.

Committee rose at eighteen minutes to Four o'clock.