The Scottish National Party MP for Glasgow East, John Mason, has given his backing to fire-fighters lobbying the House of Commons over concerns about rising crew fatalities.

According to the Fire Brigade Union (FBU) eight fire-fighters died in the line of duty throughout the UK during 2007 – the worst year since 1985. There has also been a sharp rise in fire deaths in the last five years, with the 22 deaths since 2003 being significantly higher than preceding five year period.

Speaking after meeting local fire crew at the House of Commons, John Mason said: “Deaths of fire-fighters on duty have risen sharply over the last five years, and this is a trend that must be reversed.

“The public in Glasgow, and throughout Scotland, are extremely proud of our fire professionals, and we owe them a debt of gratitude for the risks they take to protect our families and our homes.

“The FBU is calling for a new UK Fire and Rescue Service body.  It would be in charge of implementing changes to the service resulting from recommendations based on serious incidents or fatalities.

“I will be contacting the Scottish Government in order to ensure that the FBU’s recommendations are considered in a local context.”

Notes:

The FBU is calling for a national Fire and Rescue Service body. It would be in charge of implementing changes to the service resulting from recommendations based on serious incidents or fatalities.