The Fire Brigade Union has accused government ministers of ignoring requests for reconciliation talks ahead of strike action. 

Members are due to walk out tomorrow from 7am for 24 hours as part of an ongoing dispute over changes to pensions.

Firefighters from across London and the south-east are expected to attend a rally in Westminster. 

Matt Wrack, FBU general secretary, said: "Government ministers have ignored three written requests in the last few weeks by the union to meet to try to resolve this dispute.

"Ministers are quick to call this union ‘militant’ and yet it’s them who still refuse to talk to us when we remain ready to meet and negotiate at any time."

London Fire Brigade warned there will not be a normal service during the strike, with less serious incidents such as fire alarms and bin fires left unattended.