This Order gives effect to the framework document entitled “Fire and Rescue Framework for Scotland 2016” (“the 2016 Framework”), for the purpose of section 40(4) of the Fire (Scotland) Act 2005 (“the Act”).

The Scottish Ministers are required to prepare a framework document under section 40(1) of the Act (as amended by the Police and Fire Reform (Scotland) Act 2012 which established a single Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (“SFRS”) to replace the fire and rescue authorities and joint fire and rescue boards). The Scottish Ministers are required by section 40(2) to keep the framework document under review and may from time to time revise it.

The 2016 Framework sets out priorities and objectives for SFRS in connection with the carrying out of its statutory functions. It also contains such guidance, and other matters relating to SFRS and its functions, as the Scottish Ministers consider appropriate. Section 41(1) of the Act requires SFRS to have regard to the 2016 Framework in carrying out its functions. The 2016 Framework was published in September 2016 and is available on the Scottish Government’s website: www.gov.scot/Publications/2016/8011.

Article 3 of the Order revokes the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (Framework and Appointed Day for Strategic Plan) Order 2013.

A Business and Regulatory Impact Assessment has been prepared and placed in the Scottish Parliament Information Centre. Copies may be obtained from the Fire and Rescue Unit, Safer Communities Directorate, Scottish Government, 1W St. Andrew’s House, Regent Road, Edinburgh EH1 3DG and online at www.legislation.gov.uk.