A BILL to put fire prevention further up the public agenda will be introduced in the Commons this week by Burnley MP Peter Pike.

It would require fire services to ensure prevention of blazes has a high priority for the first time.

At present, Brigades are not even required by law to perform such tasks, although many, including Lancashire, do so.

This has caused a grey area in the law, leading some people to question the legality of existing fire prevention work. Mr Pike's Private Member's Bill would clear up the confusion and place a statutory duty on all fire services to carry out prevention work.

Although it is only 17th out of the 20 Bills selected in the annual ballot, he still hopes it could be become law with government and cross party support.

The Home Office has offered help with drafting and promised some support and time.

Mr Pike said: "This is an extremely important matter. Fire prevention saves lives, and reduces damage and injury.

"Anyone who votes against the Bill is voting against preventing deaths, damage and injury.

"I had more than 50 different proposals put to me after for the first time getting a place in the ballot, but at 17th I needed a measure that could command support across the House of Commons."

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