Plans considered for civil defence corps

A new draft Bill has been launched setting out plans for civil protection in the UK which also aims to modernise the government's ability to deal with serious emergencies.

The government is now asking for views on the proposals set out in the draft Civil Contingencies Bill – which would replace outdated legislation like the Emergency Powers Act 1920 and the Civil Defence Act 1948. The consultation will run until 11 September.

In his foreword to the consultation document, Minister for the Cabinet Office Douglas Alexander said that increasingly complex networks of economic and social activity, the threat of international terrorism and changing climate have led to a series of emergencies and heightened concerns for the future.

"Many of the certainties that determined the way in which the public, private and voluntary sectors prepared for past emergencies cannot now be relied upon," he said.

It is hoped that the framework will be rolled out across the regions to deliver a new civil protection tier.

A new draft Bill has been launched setting out a single framework for civil protection in the UK. It aims to modernise the government's ability to deal with the most serious emergencies and sets out clear responsibilities for everyone from front line responders to central government departments.

The government is now asking for views on the proposals set out in the draft Civil Contingencies Bill.

In his foreword to the consultation document, Minister for the Cabinet Office Douglas Alexander said increasingly complex networks of economic and social activity, the threat of international terrorism and changing climate have led to a series of emergencies and heightened concerns for the future.

"Many of the certainties that determined the way in which the public, private and voluntary sectors prepared for past emergencies cannot now be relied upon," he said.

The framework will enhance existing regional resilience by delivering a new civil protection tier. A clear role for the regions will ensure consistency of activity across and between the tiers, and set out clear expectations and responsibilities. Changes at the local level will clearly identify local responder roles and responsibilities, ensuring consistency and enhancing performance and communication.

The Civil Contingencies Bill would replace outdated legislation like the Emergency Powers Act 1920 and the Civil Defence Act 1948. The consultation will run until 11 September.

(GMcG)