8. Will the Cabinet Secretary make a statement on the current structure of the fire and rescue service in Wales? OAQ51789

The current structure of fire and rescue authorities dates from the mid-1990s. It needs reform to ensure that fire and rescue authorities are properly accountable for delivery and spending. This will not necessarily mean changes to the number or coverage of fire and rescue authorities.

The structure of principal local authorities, including today, has been discussed regularly—for as long back as I can remember—but the structure of fire and rescue services does not seem to have been considered. Many believe that the structure of the Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service was created for political reasons. I do not see the community interest of the ability to provide emergency support between Machynlleth and Margam or Welshpool and Worm's Head. Will the Cabinet Secretary consider a review of the structure of fire and rescue services in Wales? If we're only going to have three, I'm sure that parts of northern Powys would fit more easily into north Wales than they do in with Neath Port Talbot and Swansea.

I'm glad to hear, Presiding Officer, the Member for Swansea East arguing for changes to the structure and organisation of local government bodies in Wales. I'm delighted that he's joined us in that consensus. Can I say to him that it isn't my intention at present to make any statements on this matter except to say that I have written to the chairs of all three fire and rescue authorities in Wales outlining what I believe the case for change happens to be? I'm very happy, Presiding Officer, to put that letter in the library for all Members to see that letter, to see that correspondence, and I've asked the chairs of the fire and rescue authorities to come to me with a response to that when they're able to do so. It is my intention, Presiding Officer, in all these matters, to move ahead with a maximum amount of consensus. So, at present, it's not my intention to make specific proposals for the reform of fire and rescue authorities—simply to say that I believe that reform is necessary and that the status quo is not sustainable.

Thank you, Cabinet Secretary.