Steve Reed responds to PAC report on flood resilience

Steve Reed MP, Labour’s Shadow Environment Secretary, responding to the Public Accounts Committee report that criticises the Government for being 'in the dark' when it comes to flood resilience, said:

“This Conservative government is too chaotic and distracted to protect communities before disaster strikes, leaving communities and businesses paying the price.

“The next Labour government will create COBRA-style Flood Resilience Taskforce to ensure vulnerable areas are identified and protected. 

“That means spades in the ground building flood defences, natural flood management schemes and drainage systems in vulnerable communities.”  

Ends

Notes:

• 5.7 million homes in England are now at risk of flooding. Flood protection will be provided for at least 40% fewer properties than originally planned by the Government, according to Environment Agency forecasts, and 203,000 properties are at increased risk of flooding due to the deterioration of existing flood defences.
  
  

  'Flood resilience eroded by poorly maintained defences with Government in the dark on progress' - Public Accounts Committe report, 17 January 2024