Terms set for wide-ranging fire authority probe

Ministers have set out the terms of a new investigation into West Midlands Fire and Rescue Authority (WMFRA), amid concerns about changes in leadership and poor governance.

Inspectors have been tasked with identifying whether there is a culture of fear, and how well it complies with requirements for efficient management.

The government has said it is "concerned" by WMFRA's ability to comply with its "Best Value Duty" under the Local Government Act 1999.

Councillor Cathryn Bayton, chair of WMFRA, said it would be "a valuable opportunity to take stock of the changes we've already made, and to ensure we are making sustained progress."

She added: "I'm confident that the inspection will support our commitment to strong governance, openness and continuous improvement."

Simon Tuhill, chief fire officer, also said: "This is welcome additional scrutiny. It is an opportunity to show the service's strengths, to learn, and keep improving.

"Our people do exceptional work every day. We're open to challenge, reflective about the past, and always focused on delivering for our communities."

Documents published by the MHCLG stated the inspection would judge WMFRA's previous, current and likely future compliance with the act.

Other areas to be scrutinised include the ability of staff to "whistle blow", the authority's processes and practices against those who fall short of the expected standards and decisions orn recruitment and employment.

The Best Value Inspection follows a high turnover of senior staff at both the fire service and fire authority which oversees it, since the death of former chief fire officer Wayne Brown in January 2024.

In October, Aldridge Brownhills Conservative MP, Wendy Morton, called for an inquiry into the way the authority was run, citing "deep rooted and troubling problems".

MHCLG has requested inspectors to conclude their work by March 2026.

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