Ministerial Corrections
Wednesday 21 November 2007
Communities and Local Government
Fire Services: Firebuy
Andrew Stunell: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government what process was followed by Firebuy Limited in setting the technical specifications for procurement on behalf of the Fire and Rescue Service; what mechanism is in place to provide assurance in relation to this process; what recent (a) discussions she has had and (b) representations she has received from (i) the Fire and Rescue Service and (ii) others on the (A) procedures and practices, (B) conclusions and (C) overall performance against objectives of Firebuy Limited in relation to the Integrated Clothing Project; and if she will make a statement. [160485]
[Official Report, 25 October 2007, Vol. 465, c. 509W.]
Letter of correction from Mr. Dhanda to Andrew Stunell:
An error has been identified in the written answer given to the hon. Member for Hazel Grove on 25 October
2007, Official Report, column 509W. The correct answer should have been:
The Integrated Clothing Project operates under the principles of the Prince2 project management method and is subject to Gateway reviews by the 4ps (Public Private Partnerships Programme) who are the local government procurement experts. Firebuy Ltd works with the Chief Fire Officers Association, as the professional voice of the Fire & Rescue Service, in the setting of national technical specifications. The testing methodology utilised by Firebuy Limited, for Personal Protective Equipment, has become the benchmark process which is now contained within British Standard BS 8469. It is the intention of the UK to offer this British Standard for possible inclusion in the appropriate European and International Standards committees.
There have been recent (a) discussions and (b) representation from both (i) Fire & Rescue Authorities (FRAs) and (ii) suppliers to the industry on when the Integrated Clothing Project will be let as this kit is required urgently by some FRAs. It is too soon to comment on the (A) procedures and practices, (B) conclusions and (C) overall performance against objectives as the project has just completed the Stage 3 Gateway Review, which looked at the investment decision.
| Index | Home Page |