The Fire and Rescue Association welcomes the latest State of the Fire and Rescue Service report from His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services. The report highlights many concerns raised by the Association over many years, and have been reported upon previously by various independent review bodies and observers.

Chief Executive Tristan Ashby said:

‘The report presents a depressing, but familiar critique of the fire and rescue service, and its difficulties in embracing reform. The problem of culture, which the report highlights often arises from the inability of the service to move forward with the times. It was only a matter of time before it would be entangled in controversy and subsequent public outrage. Senior leaders both in terms of of operations and governance have been found wanting. It is important to remember that the recent scandals have not been exposed by inspection or senior leaders, but through the determined struggle by victims to get their voice heard. Our members expect better.

We hope that root and branch reform of the service can take place, but this requires political vision, investment and excellent governance – none of which we currently see.’