Fire Service Circular No 9/1985 dated 25 September 1985, which was also distributed to Chief Officers of Police as Home Office Circular 71/1985, clarified earlier advice given on procedural requirements to be observed in the investigation of fires of doubtful origin. It also provided guidance about giving evidence in court in arson cases. The purpose of this joint Circular, which replaces that of 1985, is to give further advice in the light of recent surveys of current practice within fire brigades and police forces conducted by the Arson Prevention Bureau.