In a chilling reminder of events following the Lakanal House tragedy last summer, Communities Secretary John Denham has asked the government’s chief fire and rescue advisor to keep him informed of developments arising from yesterday’s tower block fire in Southampton, when two firefighters were killed.

Commenting on the incident, Mr Denham said: "Our thoughts and condolences are with the families of the two firefighters who have tragically lost their lives in the fire in Southampton yesterday. The incident brings home to us the professionalism and dedication of the men and women working in our fire and rescue services and of the debt of gratitude we owe them.

“I've asked Sir Ken Knight, the Government's Chief Fire and Rescue Adviser, to keep me in close contact with the investigations into this tragic incident and identify any lessons to be learnt."

Speaking in the House of Commons today, Gordon Brown also paid tribute to the two firefighters. “We send our condolences to the family and friends of the two brave firemen who died in Southampton last night,” the prime minister said. “We pay tribute to the bravery and commitment demonstrated by all our emergency and public services.

Fire Brigades Union general secretary, Matt Wrack said: “Firefighters across the UK will be devastated by the loss of two colleagues. Our thoughts are with their families. The FBU has already started our procedures for investigating fatal incidents. Firefighters work extremely closely together and share challenges and dangers. Losing a colleague is something that touches everyone and that firefighters never get over.”

Video and pictures of the incident (thisishampshire.net)