Written question asked by Simon Hughes (Liberal Democrat) on Tuesday, 27 June 2000, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 19 July 2000. It was answered by Mike O'Brien (Labour) on Wednesday, 19 July 2000 on behalf of the Home Office.

Home Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, if he will assess the benefits of the Audit Commission proposal for the creation of a multi-agency helpline to relieve pressure on the existing 999 emergency number; and if he will make a statement. - (Holding answer 5 July 2000).

Answer: Mr. Simon Hughes: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will assess the benefits of the Audit Commission proposal for the creation of a multi-agency helpline to relieve pressure on the existing 999 emergency number; and if he will make a statement. [128533] Mr. Mike O'Brien: [holding answer 5 July 2000]: I have asked officials, in consultation with the Association of Chief Police Officers, to develop proposals for a new call handling strategy. Relieving pressure on the 999 service and using new technology to receive and provide information to the public will be considered as part of that strategy.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 128533; 354 c177-8W
Session: 1999-00
Subjects: Software Cooperation Emergency calls Telephone services Telephone operator services
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk