This morning I took part in a debate on proposed changes to Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service’s operational response.

Our fire service has faced one of the worst funding settlements in the country, losing £11.3 million since 2010 due to Tory austerity.

As a result, it is being forced to make extremely difficult choices about how it will respond to incidents in years to come, and there are valid concerns about how these will affect public safety.

That’s why I pressed the government on the unfair funding structure that leads to our area losing out, even though demand is increasing.

Our hardworking fire service shouldn’t be forced to choose between saving money and keeping the public safe, and I’ll keep fighting for a fairer deal for our area.

You can watch part of my contribution here on Facebook.

Or watch the debate online by clicking here.