Kerry McCarthy MP, Shadow Environment Secretary, commenting on the Government’s support package to boost tourism in Cumbria:

“With water levels rising again and more homes and businesses at risk, all resources are welcome. But with damage in the county estimated at in excess of half a billion pounds, this is a drop in the ocean.”

“Up to £23 million more could be made available immediately to British homes and businesses devastated by the floods through an EU insurance fund. Tory Ministers have so far refused to make a claim, even though we have paid in £300 million since the fund was set up.

“With only a 12 week window to apply, David Cameron urgently needs to make a claim and rethink his approach to protecting homes, businesses and communities from future floods.”