THE House of Commons was told last week about the concerns of Wirral residents over the possible downgrading of Heswall and West Kirby fire stations.

Wirral South MP, Ben Chapman, raised his constituents' concerns about the proposed change to day manning during an adjournment debate in the Commons.

Speaking in the debate Mr Chapman said: "As I think I have made it clear there is no sign that the Fire Authority has taken into account the views or fears of local residents.

"I ask the Minister to reflect on the points I have made and, I hope, having done so to support my plea for this local issue to be referred back to the Fire Authority for further consideration and particularly to insist that they do more to meet the wishes of local residents."

The Home Secretary, Jack Straw, will have to approve the authority's downgrading proposals before they can be introduced. Mr Chapman was assured that no final decision had been taken and the considerable concern over the authority's consultation process was acknowledged.

It was added that the Home Secretary would not approve the proposals unless National Fire Service standards were maintained, including speed of response.