Update report on the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service’s planning and preparedness for exiting the European Union

This report has been provided by HM Chief Inspector of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service to the Director for Safer Communities on behalf of the Scottish Government (SG), and provides a follow-up report on the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service’s (SFRS) readiness for exiting the European Union (EU).

A report was presented on 18 March 2020 that focused on a ‘No Deal Brexit’.  Whilst negotiations to secure a deal are still ongoing, the respective governments have until 31 December 2020 to agree the terms of a trade deal.  What is clear is that the SFRS must make a reasonable assessment of the likely outcome and plan accordingly.  Both the public and SG will expect the Service to be able to respond to emergency calls  and deliver its Statutory Duties as contained within the Fire (Scotland) Act 2005.