Received from: FBU
Congress welcomes the end of Tory-led Westminster governments that caused terrible damage to our fire and rescue service over 14 years.
Congress notes the Labour Party’s 2024 general election manifesto, which stated that “Labour will improve resilience and preparation across central government, local authorities, local communities, and emergency services. This includes formally working with all stakeholders in the fire and rescue services to inform policy and establish national standards.”
Congress further notes Labour’s commitment to “take decisive action to improve building safety, including through regulation, to ensure we never again see a repeat of the Grenfell fire”.
Congress also notes Labour’s Plan to Make Work Pay, which stated “Labour will ensure our plans do not undermine existing collective bargaining arrangements that are supported by unions.”
Congress welcomes the FBU’s Firefighters’ Manifesto, setting out a clear list of demands on the Westminster government to renew our fire and rescue service.
Congress demands from the Westminster government:
i. long-term, sustained investment in the fire and rescue service
ii. national standards of fire and rescue service emergency response
iii. a new UK-wide statutory body for fire policy and standards, to include the FBU
iii. learn the lessons from the Grenfell Tower fire
iv. bring the Fire Service College and Building Research Establishment into public ownership
v. independent governance arrangements for fire and rescue services, separate from police
vi. recognition of occupational cancers and diseases affecting firefighters.
Congress supports the FBU’s campaign of lobbies, rallies and UK-wide action.
Fire Brigades Union