THE GOVERNMENT is being called on to give extra cash to fire services across Lancashire to avoid a pensions funding crisis.

The Association of County Councils is claiming the Fire Brigade could be facing a £400 million shortfall on pensions unless the Government takes immediate action.

The ACC also believes extra money is needed to replace crumbling buildings and out of date engines. The national shortfall in pension schemes is set to top £200 million in the next financial year.

But government spending on the service was just £17 million last year.

Mick Warner, the ACC's fire and emergency planning chairman, spoke at the association's national conference in Eastbourne.

He said: "The Government cannot go on inflicting cuts on fire brigades without affecting their ability to save lives. Ministers have to acknowledge the overwhelming case for increasing fire funding next year."

He added: "It will cost fire brigades five per cent more next year to provide the same level of cover as this year.

"Fire authorities have already done too much to improve their efficiency. And local authorities have put more money into fire protection than the Government has given them in grants.

"Now it is time for the Government to show the same level of commitment to the fire service that we do."

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