THE arduous and dangerous tasks undertaken by emergency services at the scene of the explosion at the Glasgow factory underline the importance to retain well-resourced, well-trained and well-paid firefighters.

Of all public servants, firefighters have a special place in the minds of the British people.

It is a pity, therefore, when we should be concentrating solely on the bravery and professionalism of firefighters, we are distracted by reports of another possible round of industrial action.

Last year's protracted dispute gave enough time for both the Fire Brigades Union and the local authority employers to settle their differences once and for all.

But it is clear that the dispute was not resolved, but merely suspended pending a settlement. Many months down the line, that settlement appears to remain a long way off.

We hope sincerely that talk of industrial action is only a bargaining tactic adopted by the FBU.

Last year's action threatened to undermine the public's overwhelming support for the cause of firefighters. A new round of action may see public support ebbing away.

We do not lay the blame for the deadlock at the door of the firefighters and their leadership.

The negotiations conducted on behalf of the local authorities have been muddled, confused and incoherent. No one questions the need to reform the fire service, but local authorities seem to have no clarity of thought on what form the reforms should take and how they should be implemented.

It is unrealistic to expect the FBU to sign at the bottom of a blank piece of paper.

Government intervention last year brought more confusion and prolonged the dispute.

Let us hope that on this occasion ministers take decisive action before the start of industrial action to bring both sides together rather than push them further apart