§ Mr. Freudasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he will publish in the Official Report an estimate of damage to agriculture and horticulture industries in and around Wisbech caused by last week's floods; and what compensation will be available to those who suffered loss.
§ Mr. StrangIt is estimated that about 30 hectares of mixed horticultural crops were affected by floodwater in the Wisbech area, but it is impossible to say at this stage how much damage these crops may have suffered. In addition it has been reported that nursery stock valued at about £15,000 has been lost from one holding. My right hon. Friend the Minister has no powers to pay compensation for losses due to flooding but is giving further thought to the possibility of helping affected farmers and growers.