Alex Norris MP outlines priorities as incoming Fire Minister
Iain Hoey
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Image: Alexander Norris ©House of Commons
Fire policy transition to the Ministry for Housing
According to The Emergency Services Times, Alex Norris MP, who will become Fire Minister as fire policy returns to the Ministry for Housing, addressed fire chiefs at the annual LGA Fire Conference about upcoming changes in the fire sector.
He welcomed the establishment of a new College of Fire and Rescue and the role of the Ministerial Advisory Group in addressing long-term challenges.
He described his appointment as a “profound responsibility” and highlighted his prior experience in fire governance, having served on the Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Authority before becoming an MP in 2017, the same year as the Grenfell Tower fire.
Leadership changes in the fire sector
As reported by The Emergency Services Times, Norris acknowledged shifts in leadership across the fire and rescue sector.
He noted that Mark Hardingham will step down as Chair of the National Fire Chiefs Council, with Phil Garrigan set to take on the role.
He also pointed to changes within the Fire Services Management Committee, where Greg Brackenridge no longer leads the West Midlands Fire Authority, and recognised the appointment of Steve Wright as the new General Secretary of the Fire Brigades Union.
College of Fire and Rescue and Ministerial Advisory Group
The Minister spoke about the government’s initiative to establish a College of Fire and Rescue, describing it as an idea he has discussed with fire chiefs, authority leaders, and unions over the years.
He expressed enthusiasm for the project, highlighting its potential to enhance leadership and professionalism within the sector.
He also addressed the Ministerial Advisory Group, which has already held initial meetings.
He stated: “It will be an important place where all partners, including government, get around the table and look at long-standing issues.
“It is structured in a way that is collaborative. As a new Minister, I find this exceptionally reassuring.”
Grenfell Tower response and construction safety
According to The Emergency Services Times, Norris referenced the government’s response to the final report on the Grenfell Tower fire, which accepted all 58 recommendations made by Sir Martin Moore-Bick.
He also discussed a green paper on reforms to the construction products regime, encouraging stakeholders to participate in the consultation process.
He stated that fire safety and building regulation discussions are ongoing within the Ministry for Housing, which is led by the Deputy Prime Minister.
Alex Norris MP outlines priorities as incoming Fire Minister: Summary
The Emergency Services Times has reported that Alex Norris MP, set to become Fire Minister as fire policy transitions to the Ministry for Housing, addressed fire chiefs at the LGA Fire Conference.
He spoke about sector-wide leadership changes, including new appointments at the National Fire Chiefs Council and the Fire Brigades Union.
Norris welcomed the formation of the College of Fire and Rescue and the Ministerial Advisory Group, highlighting their role in strengthening leadership and collaboration.
He also discussed the government’s response to the Grenfell Tower final report and a green paper on construction product safety.
He stated that the Ministry for Housing, led by the Deputy Prime Minister, holds regular discussions on fire safety and building regulations.
