Alex Norris MP, who is set to become the Fire Minister as fire policy moves back under the Ministry for Housing, addressed fire chiefs this week, acknowledging the significant changes within the industry. He expressed his support for the establishment of a new College of Fire and Rescue and the role of the Ministerial Advisory Group in driving long-term improvements in the sector.

Before becoming an MP in June 2017, the same month as the Grenfell Tower fire, Norris served as a councillor on the Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Authority. This experience, he noted, complements his current role as Building Safety Minister.

Speaking at the annual LGA Fire Conference, where he addressed chief fire officers and fire authority chairs, Norris described his appointment as the incoming Fire Minister as a “real pleasure,” calling it a “profound responsibility.”

Discussing the transition of fire policy from the Home Office on 1 April, he said: “We have a huge asset in our department because we are led by the Deputy Prime Minister, so conversations about fire, building safety and our duties to the Grenfell community take place every day.”

Recognising the significant changes occurring within the fire sector, he pointed not only to shifts at the Ministerial level but also to leadership transitions within the National Fire Chiefs Council. With Mark Hardingham stepping down, Phil Garrigan is set to take over as Chair.

He also acknowledged changes in the Fire Services Management Committee, noting that Greg Brackenridge, the former Chair, no longer leads the Fire Authority in the West Midlands. Additionally, Steve Wright, the newly appointed General Secretary of the Fire Brigades Union, was present at the conference in Gateshead, and the Minister referenced the impact of recent election results.

On the subject of leadership and professionalism in the fire sector, Norris stated: “I am very excited about the idea of the College of Fire, it’s a conversation I’ve been having over the years with chiefs, Authority leaders and unions.”

The government has also introduced a Ministerial Advisory Group, which has already convened. Looking ahead to his new role, Norris remarked: “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.”

He also addressed the government’s response to the final report on Grenfell Tower, confirming its acceptance of all 58 recommendations made by Sir Martin Moore-Bick. Additionally, he highlighted the ongoing consultation on changes to the construction products regime, encouraging industry feedback on the green paper.

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