Fears West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue service could lose more than £1 million in funding were today raised in Westminster. Leeds North West MP Greg Mulholland tabled a Commons motion outlining concerns over Government consultation on plans for funding re-organisation of fire services.
The Lib Dem MP fears West Yorkshire fire chiefs could face losing up to £1.3m and will call for a more "fundamental" review before any finding formulas are changed.
Mr Mulholland said: "Well equipped and well funded local fire services are vital, and I am highly concerned about the impact of these proposals could have for our region.
"The West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service performs a tremendous service for the local community, and there is a real risk that these new Government plans could severely undermine the great work they do."
West Yorkshire's Chief Fire Officer, Phil Toase, speaking on behalf of all the metropolitan brigades, said it made no sense to change the formula in such a way that could move £30 million away from authorities serving "some of our most deprived and at risk' communities."
He added: "We are fortunate to have MPs from across the political spectrum who are prepared to speak out and carry the fight into the heart of Westminster.
"We remain hopeful that common sense will prevail and that any immediate changes to the formula will be put on hold pending a more fundamental review of local government finance."
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