THE prime minister has been slammed by local MP Adam Price for fanning the flames of the firefighters strike.

And tomorrow (Fri) Mr. Price will join Ammanford firefighters on their picket line on the last planned day of the current eight-day stoppage, to pledge his support to their cause.

He has joined many trade unionists and the TUC, in criticising the Government for blocking the agreement, reached by the FBU, which would have avoided the eight-day strike.

Mr. Price told the Guardian this week: “From the information I have received, the union agreed to a draft pay and modernisation agreement, involving independent adjudication and an opt out for either party, if an offer was unacceptable.

“Either john Prescott didn't understand that this was a serious offer, or he was gagged by his boss.

“Either way tony blair is responsible for the present eight day stoppage.”

Mr. Price believes that the FBU are being demonised by the right wing press, the Conservative Party and by new Labour Ministers.

He said: “All they are attempting to negotiate is a fairer salary for their members.

“Sixteen per cent over two years is actually only 4% over inflation for two years, much of which could be recovered through a modernisation agreement.

“The Trade Union movement need to question why they are funding a right-wing political party that has a Thatcherite approach to industrial action,” he added.