§ Mr. Spellerasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will review the flood danger early warning system in south-west England; and if he will make a statement on the lack of advance warning of the floods experienced along the north Devon coastline on the afternoon and evening of Friday 23 November.
§ Mr. MacGregorI have been asked to reply.
We are always willing to look at proposals for improving flood warning systems. We understand that on 23 November the warning of flooding was given to residents as early as possible. It is the responsibility of the South-West water authority to provide early warning of flooding along the north Devon coastline.