COUNCIL chiefs in York and North Yorkshire will be told to draw up fresh plans for a mass evacuation in case of terrorist attack, under new laws.

The Government has announced a shake-up of legislation dating back to the 1920s to prepare communities for the post-September 11 threat.

The Civil Contingencies Bill is designed to tackle the widespread fear that local authorities have a "Dad's Army" attitude towards civil defence.

Now all local councils - as well as the emergency services - will be designated as "Category 1 responders" in case of an attack.

Robin Myshrall, head of emergency risk management for North Yorkshire County Council, welcomed any action which would update the way local authorities tackle civil emergencies.

He said: "Some of the legislation we are currently working with is very outdated and anything which focuses the mind on an emergency response to current situations must be regarded as a step forward.

"A key factor in all this, however, is that it must be funded appropriately and that is something which needs closer examination."

Emergency planner at City of York Council Barry Kelly said: "It is a sensible move and we fully support it."

The Bill will impose a new duty on councils to ensure all residents are told of the evacuation plans in place in case of contamination or poisoning.

Updated: 10:54 Friday, June 20, 2003