Changes to European working time laws could lead to dangerous shortages in fire cover across the UK, the Liberal Democrats warned today.

The European Parliament recently passed rules that would scrap Britain's opt-out from the European Working Time Directive. This could mean that retained firefighters, who often have other jobs, would have to drastically cut the hours they are available to the fire service.

Many areas already have problems with recruiting retained firefighters, with over half of posts unfilled.

The rule changes would not affect most other EU countries where part-time firefighters work on a voluntary basis and are therefore not covered by the opt-out.

Commenting, Liberal Democrat Shadow Communities and Local Government Secretary, Julia Goldsworthy said:

"People mustn't be penalised for choosing to stick to working time hours, but neither should people who want to help in their communities.

"Retained firefighters are a crucial part of the UK's emergency services.

"The fact the rules wouldn't affect voluntary firefighters elsewhere in the EU is simply unfair.

"Liberal Democrats are campaigning hard to keep the opt-out for retained firefighters and ensuring the emergency services are able to provide a flexible and high-quality service across the UK."