Bolton fire shows further action must be taken to ensure building safety - no excuse for inaction

As news spreads that cladding may have been a factor in a fire at a student accommodation block in Bolton, Tim Farron, Liberal Democrats Shadow Secretary for Housing, Communities and Local Government said:

"My thoughts are with all those affected by this incident and our emergency services teams who tackled the blaze last night.

"In the wake of the Grenfell tragedy, it is absolutely shocking to witness another high-rise fire in which cladding may have been a factor in allowing the fire to spread.

"Lives are in danger. The government must act immediately to make sure that all high-rise buildings are safe to live in, whether they are owned by councils, housing associations or the private sector. The priority must be people's safety. There is no excuse for inaction.

"It's also essential that we review building safety regulations to ensure that building materials are fit for purpose and do not pose a fire risk. We cannot allow buildings to be built that endanger people's live."