ASSAULTS ON FIREFIGHTERS

That this House notes with alarm the number of assaults on members of the fire brigade attending incidents, with figures for 2004-05 showing that there were 633 such assaults; recognises the excellent service provided by firefighters, who often risk their own lives on behalf of others; condemns any attacks or assaults on firefighters; recognises that under the Fire and Rescue Services Act 2004 it is an offence to obstruct or interfere with an employee of a fire and rescue authority when they are carrying out their duties; and calls on the Government to take a zero tolerance stance in order to protect firefighters.