Labour calls for independent review into government’s 'woefully slow' flood response
2 min read
Labour has demanded an independent review into the Government’s handling of the floods which have devastated communities across the country.
More than 3,300 properties in England are thought to have been flooded as a result of the combined effects of storms Ciara and Dennis, according to the Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs.
Record February rainfall also saw some areas experiencing a month's rain in just 24 hours.
Boris Johnson was criticised for his refusal to visit affected areas, with Jeremy Corbyn accusing him of being a “part-time” Prime Minister.
Labour will demand an independent inquiry into the Government's response in an opposition day debate in the Commons on Wednesday.
It would aim to establish the impact of the flooding on communities and businesses, as well as what measures had been taken to mitigate future flooding.
“Boris Johnson has proved himself to be a part-time Prime Minister who is unwilling to help communities and businesses that have suffered terribly because of the floods,” Shadow Environment Secretary Luke Pollard said.
He added: “There needs to be an independent review into the Government’s woefully slow response to help flood-hit communities.
“We need to know how many homes and businesses have been affected, and what additional funding will be made available to local authorities and emergency services.
“Labour will continue to support communities devastated by the floods and hold the Government to account for its inaction.”
Record rainfall across the UK last month triggered flood warnings across the country, with 600 in England alone at the peak of the crisis.
PoliticsHome Newsletters
PoliticsHome provides the most comprehensive coverage of UK politics anywhere on the web, offering high quality original reporting and analysis: Subscribe
