Devizes MP Claire Perry said she had not been involved in discussions about the merger of the Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service with its counterpart in Dorest but said she would be in favour of it if it led to a more efficient service at a lower cost.

She said: “If the plan is for the control centre to be at Potterne and this could potentially lead to more jobs in my constituency and a way of reducing costs it seems like a sensible move.

"I would have to see the proposal in more detail before I comment in any depth but it would seem it is not a negative move for Wiltshire and Swindon Fire Service.

“I will definitely be at the meeting in the New Year to hear more about it.”