Chloe meets with Norwich firemen

Chloe Smith, MP for Norwich North, today met with firemen from Bethel St and Sprowston Fire Stations in the House of Commons. The firemen were attending a public rally and lobby.

Chloe has previously spoken to firemen about their concerns and today discussed public safety, firefighters safety, response times, regional controls and pensions. She will now be writing to Bob Neill MP, the Minister with responsibility for Fire and Resilience, to raise their concerns.

Commenting on the rally Chloe Smith said:

"I was very pleased to meet with the firemen at today's rally. I know that everyone in the Fire and Rescue Service from the boss downwards faces tough choices throughout their jobs, including about how best to allocate scarce public funds. However, without a doubt the worst to imagine are those decisions that firefighters have to take on the spot. They simply must be equipped adequately and safely to do their job of response, protection and prevention. Firefighters naturally want to see the best protection for the public, but also need it themselves when they go into a dangerous situation.

"I have previously met with the acting Chief Fire officer and the Norfolk Fire Officer to discuss the services Safety Plan for 2011-14 and I will be arranging to meet with the new Chief Fire Officer in the new year to continue these discussions.

"Firemen in Norwich do a fantastic job and I want to see the service continue to serve the city adequately and safely."