§ Mr. Corfieldasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government if he is aware of the serious flooding that has occurred in areas not hitherto subject to such risks; and whether, in view of the 190W fact that in such areas flooding would not be regarded as a risk which ought to be covered by private insurance, he will make special provision to assist local authorities in these areas in helping people of limited means who have suffered serious damage.
§ Mr. MacCollMy right hon. Friend is aware of areas that were recently affected by flooding, including some within the constituency of the hon. Member, though he does not know which of these have not been flooded before.
Insurance cover against flood risks is generally available on reasonable terms and the need for such cover in any area is a matter for individual judgment. Exchequer assistance would be considered only where bona fide local flood relief funds had been set up; and the extent of the damage, the adequacy of local resources and the availability of insurance cover would be taken into account.