§ Dr. StoateTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what plans he has to review Government guidelines identifying riparian owners as possessing sole liability for the maintenance of community flood defences; and if he will make a statement. [139498]
§ Mr. MorleyI have no plans to adjust the historic responsibilities of riparian owners. These are explained in the Environment Agency leaflet "Living on the Edge—a guide to the rights and responsibilities of a riverside owner".
Maintenance of flood defences is the responsibility of the riparian owner. However, where defences benefit the wider community, this responsibility has at times been assumed by the relevant operating authority, ie the Environment Agency, local authority or internal drainage board, depending on the nature and location of the watercourse. It is also open to riparian owners to seek to negotiate maintenance agreements with the relevant operating authority.