Written question asked by Lord Greaves (Liberal Democrat), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Lord McKenzie of Luton (Labour) on Monday, 18 January 2010.

Mountain Rescue

Question: To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they will compensate the mountain rescue teams which have supported local authorities during recent extremeweather conditions, including floods, snow and cold conditions, in a similar manner to the Bellwin scheme for compensating local authorities.

Answer: As my noble friend Lord Faulkner of Worcester said in the House on 6 January 2010, support for mountain rescue teams is a matter for the police authority and chief constable concerned as they have responsibility for co-ordinating inland search and rescue operations. Between them, police forces contribute almost £100,000 annually in direct support and additional amounts by way of support in kind. However, in recognition of concerns expressed by the Mountain Rescue Council about such matters, the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport, the honourable Member for Gillingham, has offered to facilitate a meeting with Lord Dubs, interested parties and relevant government departments. As my noble friend also said, the efforts of those who give their time to the mountain rescue service during severe weather events of the kind we are experiencing merit only the highest praise and appreciation.

Secondary information