Labour calls for an independent assessment of the funding programme for flooding defence, led by independent experts and council leaders from affected areas.

Following the concerns expressed by council leaders and local communities today at the Government’s spending record on flood defences, John McDonnell, Labour’s Shadow Chancellor, has proposed an independent assessment of the future investment programme.

John McDonnell MP said:

“Serious concerns have been voiced today at the Government’s cuts in flood defence spending since 2010. David Cameron is in danger of losing the confidence of council leaders and local communities hit by the floods.

"In order to restore confidence in government action, I propose that a prompt independent assessment is made of the future flood defence investment programme, led by independent experts, including local council leaders drawn from the affected areas.”

“As Labour has already said, it is becoming increasingly clear that we need a cross-party approach to identify the resources required for future flood defences. And we must ensure that any investment programme remains secure beyond the life of one Parliament.”