---

Fire and Rescue Services: Political Impartiality

Answer

The Government is clear that fire and rescue service employees should maintain high standards of professionalism, impartiality and political neutrality when on duty. Staff should be able to participate in lawful political activity outside work, subject to the terms of their employment and any relevant codes of conduct, without being subject to intimidation or inappropriate pressure in the workplace.

Fire and rescue authorities, as the employer, are responsible for the management and conduct of their staff, including the handling of complaints, disciplinary matters and internal communications. It would not be appropriate for the Government to comment on or investigate specific allegations relating to individual fire and rescue services, which should be considered through the relevant local processes.

Fire and rescue authorities are expected to have appropriate policies in place governing staff conduct, equality and inclusion networks, complaints, grievances, discipline and whistleblowing. These policies should provide clear routes for staff to raise concerns about inappropriate communications or behaviour, including concerns related to political activity or political neutrality.

Secondary information

Type

Written question

Reference

9644

Session

2026-27

Grouped for answer

Yes

Subjects

Intimidation Fire and rescue services Political impartiality

Link

View this Written question on www.parliament.uk