§ Simon HughesTo ask the Deputy Prime Minister what guidelines he has issued to local authorities on dealing with the effects of severe weather. [159237]
§ Mr. AlexanderI have been asked to reply.
1447WCabinet Office has produced guidance—Dealing with Disaster—on the principles of emergency planning to assist local authorities in their preparation for, and response to, a range of major incidents, including those resulting from the effects of severe weather.
Within this framework, local authorities work closely with relevant Government Departments and organisations to ensure that robust and effective plans are in place. For example, local authorities, where necessary, will liaise regularly with flood defence managers at the Environment Agency to maintain flood defence plans.
The guidance is available in the Libraries of the House and at www.ukresilience.gov.uk.