MINISTER BENN SUPPORTS ÖPIK DEMAND FOR LOCAL INTEREST IN FLOOD MANAGEMENT (Montgomeryshire Liberal Democrats)

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Montgomeryshire Liberal Democrats <montlibdems@gmail.com>

MINISTER BENN SUPPORTS ÖPIK DEMAND FOR LOCAL INTEREST IN FLOOD MANAGEMENT

November 6, 2008 12:52 PM

In response to a question today from Lembit Öpik, Liberal Democrat MP for Montgomeryshire, the Secretary of State for Environment and Rural Affairs, Hilary Benn MP, replied to reassure him that the Government's response to the Pitt Report's recommendations were in the process of being finalised and would be announced shortly.

Recognizing the close interest that Mr Öpik had taken in Government Flood Management Plans, the Secretary of State also said that the "Policy 6" of the Severn Catchment Plan had now been revised to stress that it would be developed alongside local communities and organisations. This is in direct response to concerns about "Policy 6" which were expressed by local people.

Commenting on the exchange, Lembit Öpik said:

"I am very encouraged by the Minister's response. He has clearly done his homework and is aware of the consultation I have been involved in around the Severn Flood Plain area. I will be monitoring the development of the Severn Catchment Flood Management Plan and the Government's response to the Pitt Report.

"Amongst other things, we must ensure that local farming areas are protected as far as possible and that all options are discussed with those most affected before any particular plan is agreed upon.

"Government action must be taken quickly to strengthen those flood defences already in place and to increase awareness of flood risk - but always taking into account the interest of the local community. We're dealing with a Minister who is sensitive to that, and I'm optimistic we've made great strides with a Minister who is genuinely willing to listen and respond to public feedback. It means the representations we have made have been worthwhile."