Forty-five Essex fire brigade staff face disciplinary action after allegations they wrote anonymous letters to MPs and councillors about budget cuts. The letters were passed to the chief fire officer, who said the claims were untrue.
Deputy chief fire officer Gordon Hunter said management actions had been blamed for the deaths of children, which he called blatantly untrue. He added: 'Serious allegations and nasty comments were made about groups of employees. Firefighters are expected to act professionally at all times.'
The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) said the letters were prompted by concerns over working practices and cuts. It criticised MPs and councillors for breaching confidentiality by passing on the letters. FBU's Adrian Clarke said: 'This heavy-handed use of discipline is indicative of their style of management.'
The FBU wants disciplinary action halted and has complained to the Parliamentary Standards Committee. Baroness Angela Smith, a former fire service minister, said: 'Confidentiality in this case is not like a priest... People might become reluctant to contact MPs if they feel their confidentiality has been breached.'
