asked the Minister for Health the plans he has to deal with the fire hazard in hospitals and homes for the handicapped and disabled; and if he has considered the installation of fire alarms in these institutions.

Fire precautions in hospitals and homes for handicapped and disabled are matters for the authorities of such institutions in the first place. My Department have reminded these authorities of the need to ensure that adequate fire precautions, including the installation of suitable appliances, are maintained in all institutions under their control and that staffs are instructed in fire precautions measures.