To consider report CFO/068/18 of the Chief Fire Officer, concerning a proposed lobbying strategy, which if adopted by Merseyside Fire and Rescue Authority (MFRA) can be utilised by Members to influence the Government’s funding settlement for 2019/20 and the Comprehensive Spending Review 2019 in order to obtain the best financial settlement possible. 

Members considered Report CFO/068/18 of the Chief Fire Officer, concerning a proposed lobbying strategy, which if adopted by Merseyside Fire and Rescue Authority (MFRA) can be utilised by Members to influence the Government’s funding settlement for 2019/20 and the Comprehensive Spending Review 2019 in order to obtain the best financial settlement possible. 

Members were provided with an overview of the report and were informed that the lobbying strategy will aim to secure flexibility regarding Council Tax, highlight the broader role of firefighters and the contribution they make across our communities; and recognise the impact that austerity has had on all of our staff as individuals.

Members were informed that the lobbying strategy has the collective support of the City Region, including all Merseyside District Leaders, the Metro Mayor and MP Frank Field. The timeline for the lobbying process was also highlighted to Members; and it was acknowledged that MFRA need to act quickly. It was also stated that regardless of the outcome, MFRA will continue to lobby and do all we can to protect the communities of Merseyside.

Members were also advised that the lobbying strategy has the full support of all union colleagues.

The recommendations and draft resolution, were highlighted to Members; and those Members with responsibility for answering questions on the discharge of the Authority’s functions, within their District Councils, were requested to take the resolution back to their respective councils, to seek their approval and support.

The Chair of the Authority commented that there are several areas where the lobbying strategy will seek to secure improvements for MFRA, including a change to the business rate scheme, as well as around Council Tax. He commented that if they are successful in securing more money for MFRA, it will be spent on more firefighters to make the County safer.

The Chair of the Authority – Cllr Les Byrom, formally moved the following resolution:

“Merseyside Fire & Rescue Authority writes to the Home Office, to formally seek approval to set the 2019/20 annual precept at £5.00 for Council Tax for a Band D property; and pro rata for other bands, in line with the discretion allowed to other fire authorities in previous years.”

The Vice-Chair of the Authority – Cllr Sharon Sullivan, seconded the resolution.

Members voted on the proposed resolution, which was approved unanimously.

The Chair of the Authority advised that the Districts will be asked to consider a wider resolution.

Members played tribute to all staff for their continued support and dedication during austerity; and stated that the Authority, staff and unions need to continue working together.

Members Resolved that:

a)         The approach and actions in relation to lobbying

           Government as set out in this report, including the drafting of

           a lobbying submission to be presented to Government in 2019  in support of fair funding for MFRA, be approved.

b)         The tight timescale for action, be noted.

c)         The Chief Fire Officer be instructed to facilitate all necessary steps to prepare a lobbying submission that enjoys the full supported Merseyside’s political leadership.

c)         A draft resolution for submission to the District

          Councils in support of additional Government funding for

          MFRA, be approved.

d)         Merseyside Fire & Rescue Authority writes to the Home Office, to    formally seek approval to set the 2019/20 annual precept at £5.00 for Council Tax for a Band D property; and pro rata for other bands, in line with the discretion allowed to other fire authorities in previous years.