The London Assembly finds the institutional misogyny, racism and discrimination uncovered by the London Fire Brigade’s Independent Culture Review abhorrent.
That is why it has today agreed a motion calling on the Mayor, Deputy Mayor for Fire and Resilience and London Fire Commissioner to urgently implement the recommendations in the review.
Anne Clarke AM, who proposed the motion, said:
“The misogyny, racism, homophobia, and discrimination that the London Fire Brigade Independent Culture Review highlights is abhorrent.
“This toxic culture threatens to overshadow the incredible work of the thousands of dedicated firefighters who keep Londoners safe.
“There must be a major cultural shift in the Brigade to rebuild public trust, and to reassure all firefighters and staff that they are safe, and can thrive, at work.
“It is encouraging that the Commissioner commissioned the review and has agreed to take forward all of its recommendations, I will be working to ensure this happens.”
Susan Hall AM, who seconded the motion, said:
“I am shocked and saddened by the findings of London Fire Brigades Independent Culture Review. These horrific cases of misogyny, racism and bullying are completely unacceptable, and it is deeply concerning how widespread and severe this behaviour has been.
“The Mayor must take immediate action to address these issues."
The full text of the motion is:
This Assembly welcomes the publication of the London Fire Brigades Independent Culture Review, commissioned by London Fire Brigade Commissioner Andy Roe and would like to thank Nazir Afzal OBE for his hard work on this troubling issue.
This Assembly finds the institutional misogyny, racism and discrimination highlighted in the report abhorrent.
The Assembly therefore calls on the Mayor, Deputy Mayor for Fire and Resilience and London Fire Commissioner to urgently implement the recommendations of the report in order to not only, rebuild the public’s trust in London’s Fire Brigade but to restore the trust of fire personnel so that firefighters and staff can feel safe and thrive at work.
Notes to editors
- Watch the full webcast.
- The motion was agreed unanimously.
- Anne Clarke AM, who proposed the motion, is available for interviews.
- As well as investigating issues that matter to Londoners, the London Assembly acts as a check and a balance on the Mayor.
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