Maria Eagle MP, Labour’s Shadow Environment Secretary, responding to David Cameron s broken promise that Owen Paterson would update parliament on flood defence investment by the end of January, said:

“David Cameron has broken his promise that Owen Paterson would update parliament by the end of January on levels of flood defence investment. This is more proof that Owen Paterson is failing to get a grip in response to the devastating flooding that is still causing misery to so many people in Somerset. Those facing wrecked homes and lost business because of the floods deserve better than this.

“Owen Paterson removed flood protection from his Department’s list of priorities as soon as he got the job, will be spending nearly £100 million a year on flood protection by the end of this parliament and has refused to listen to scientific advice on climate change. Over the past fortnight, he has overseen chaos and confusion over how to cope with these floods, whether over the effectiveness of dredging or the need for military assistance. After his botched badger cull and failure on flooding, it’s no wonder so many people are now asking if he is up to the job.”

And on the Environment Agency’s use of a premium rate number for its flooding helpline, Maria Eagle said:

“It is scandalous that those suffering from the devastating floods are now being ripped-off by the very people who are supposed to be helping them. The use of premium rate numbers is unacceptable and Owen Paterson must act to end this situation immediately. He should admit which company is making money out of people’s misery and ensure that this does not happen again.”