Fire union calls for blaze block inquiry

The fire at Lakanal House, Camberwell, claimed six lives, including those of three children.

Earlier this week, communities secretary John Denham ordered Sir Ken Knight, the chief fire and rescue adviser, to carry out an review of how the blaze was dealt with.

But the FBU has written to local MP Harriet Harman, London Mayor Boris Johnson and fire minister Shahid Malik calling for an “open, robust and challenging” inquiry

FBU General Secretary Matt Rack said: “The review led is a good start but on its own it will not satisfy the legitimate public concerns which have been raised. A public inquiry should cover all aspects of the fire service operational planning and response; the fire safety and inspection regime; and the building construction and management, including the issue of refurbishment, alterations and fire-loading.”

Southwark LBC leader Nick Stanton said that he had spoken to the leaders of the other London boroughs to ask them to consider the potential implications of the Lakanal fire for similar blocks in their areas.

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