Labour London Assembly member is concerned about police station, casualty units and fire station closures

A politician who sits on a panel holding the Mayor of London to account has launched an appeal campaigning against proposed slashing of emergency services.

Navin Shah, London Assembly Member for Brent and Harrow, formed part of the 999 SOS campaign which was launched yesterday (Wednesday).

In Brent, two of three fire stations are under threat in Harlesden and Willesden while the front counter at Harlesden Police Station is also facing closure.

Willesden Green Police Station, in High Road, Willesden, will definitely be sold and the Accident and Emergency Department at Central Middlesex Hospital in Acton Lane, Harlesden, will also close under plans for health care reform.

The campaign, launched by the London Labour Party, will see local councillors; MPs and Assembly Members (AMs) collect signatures calling on the Mayor to rethink the plans.

Mr Shah told the Times: “This government is cutting too far and too fast. The safety and security of residents is at risk.

“Our police, NHS, and fire-fighters do a fantastic job keeping us all safe, now it’s our turn to repay that gratitude by making sure they have the resources needed to do their jobs.

“These cuts are short-sighted and will fundamentally undermine the ability of our emergency services to keep us safe.”

The proposals to close fire stations are part of the London Fire Brigade’s (LFBs) plans to save �65m over the next two years.

In a leaked list outlining potential closures, only Wembley Fire Station in Harrow Road was listed as “definitely not closing.”

An LFB spokesman said: “We expect to be able to maintain our current target response times. No decisions about any possible fire station closures have yet been taken. Before they are, there will be a full public consultation.”

Brent Police said they were reviewing front counter services but that at least one station in the borough would have 24 hour access.

He added: “We will also provide a greater presence in communities.”

The campaign can be seen online at www.999SOS.org.uk or on twitter @999S0SLondon