Garry Graham, Prospect deputy general secretary, said:

“Despite talking tough on defence, spending on defence has reduced in real terms by £7.6 billion since 2010. Front line workers have concerns, not just about employment terms and conditions but also about the essential fire and rescue services they proudly deliver.

“The new secretary of state should urgently review the decisions made. Ideological and arbitrary cost cutting decisions should not be allowed to put lives and our nation's security at risk.”