Maria Eagle MP, Labour’s Shadow Environment Secretary, responding to reports that David Cameron last year rejected a plea for extra funds to be made available for river dredging by local farmers, clearly warning of the dangers to the Somerset Levels, said:

“Reports that David Cameron last year rejected a plea for extra funds to be made available for river dredging by local farmers, clearly warning of the dangers to the Somerset Levels, are the latest proof of neglect by the Government.

“Ministers have done nothing but dither and delay throughout the winter floods. 

“This is further evidence that David Cameron made the wrong decision on flood protection funding and shows that neither he nor his Environment Secretary take the issue of flooding seriously.”