CAMPAIGNERS are fearing the worst over the future of part-time firefighters after a government inspector concluded that axing them would have no effect on safety.

Lancashire's Combined Fire Authority is seeking permission to axe the retained crews and engines at Accrington, Leyland and Lancaster as part of wide-ranging budget cuts.

The conclusion of the investigation by Her Majesty's Inspectorate for Fire Safety, which has been presented to the Home Office, could mean the government grants permission for the cuts later this week.

Hyndburn MP Greg Pope met Home Office minister Mike O'Brien yesterday to discuss the proposals.

Mr Pope has been fighting Accrington's corner over the issue and has voiced concern about the effect a reduction in cover would have on safety. But the Inspectorate's long-awaited recommendations could now sound the death knell for the town's part-time fire crew.

Mr Pope has asked the minister to refer the matter back to the fire authority for further consultation.

But he admitted Mr O'Brien had little room for manoeuvre following the report.

He said: "The conclusion of the Inspectorate is that there would be no safety implications with the cuts. The minister cannot ignore the report, so his decision has been restricted by its findings.

"I was grateful for the chance to meet the minister and have asked him to refer the decision back to the fire authority for more consultation.

"That would be quite a success and the ball would then be back in their court.

"Mr O'Brien is likely to decide by the end of this week whether to refer the matter or allow the cuts to go ahead."

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