Part 2Functions of fire and rescue authorities
Assistance in discharge of functions
I2I513Reinforcement schemes
1
A fire and rescue authority must, so far as practicable, enter into a reinforcement scheme with other fire and rescue authorities.
2
A reinforcement scheme is a scheme for securing mutual assistance as between fire and rescue authorities for the purpose of discharging the functions conferred under section 7, 8 or 9 on any of the authorities participating in the scheme.
3
A reinforcement scheme may make provision for apportioning between the authorities participating in the scheme any expenses incurred in taking measures to secure the efficient operation of the scheme.
4
The fire and rescue authorities participating in a reinforcement scheme must notify the Secretary of State of—
a
the making of the scheme;
b
the variation of the scheme;
c
the revocation of the scheme.
5
The fire and rescue authorities participating in a reinforcement scheme must give effect to it.
I3I614Directions as to reinforcement schemes
1
This section applies if—
a
a fire and rescue authority has asked one or more other fire and rescue authorities to agree to the making, variation or revocation of a reinforcement scheme,
b
the authorities are unable to agree to the making, terms, variation or revocation of the scheme, and
c
one of the authorities asks the Secretary of State to act under this section.
2
The Secretary of State may direct the authorities concerned—
a
to make a reinforcement scheme in the terms specified in the direction;
b
to make one or more specified variations to a reinforcement scheme;
c
to revoke a reinforcement scheme.
3
Before giving a direction under subsection (2) the Secretary of State—
a
must give both (or all) the authorities concerned an opportunity to make representations to him;
b
may cause an inquiry to be held.
I1I4I715Arrangements with other employers of fire-fighters
1
A fire and rescue authority may enter into arrangements with a person who employs fire-fighters for securing the provision by that person of assistance for the purpose of the discharge by the authority of a function conferred on it under section 7, 8 or 9.
2
But a fire and rescue authority may not enter into arrangements under this section with another fire and rescue authority.
3
Arrangements under this section may include provision as to the terms on which assistance is to be provided (including provision as to payment).