THE Chairman of the Mid and West Wales Fire Authority has expressed 'surprise and alarm' at comments made by a police boss who said the work of the authority should fall under his control.

Christopher Salmon, the Dyfed-Powys Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) has welcomed proposals for PCCs in England to have fire and rescue services added to their responsibilities.

Mr Salmon now wants the Welsh Government to make a similar move.

“Joining up budgets and accountability is the best way to join up services for the public”, he said. "Bringing emergency services together will help local areas innovate to improve safety for the public. Wales must not be left behind.

“Fire and rescue services are currently under Cardiff control.

“I call on our partners in the Welsh Government to demonstrate their commitment to devolution and explore ways to devolve fire and rescue services to PCC areas in Wales.”

But Mr Salmon's comments were attacked as a 'craving for further power' by Wynne Evans, the Narberth Pembrokeshire County Councillor who is chairman of the Mid and West Wales Fire Authority.

"I was surprised and alarmed by comments made by Mr Salmon.

"We as a fire and rescue service work closely with the other emergency services, and we are already doing far more joined up work with the Welsh Ambulance Service, which we see as positive and constructive links, that benefit the public.

"We operate as a fire authority of 24 members, where we make decisions.

"Currently, the thought of the Police and Crime Commissioners be solely responsible for policing and fire in Wales, to me seems like a craving for further power, and must be avoided at all costs."