§ 60. Mr. Chris SmithTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what is his latest estimate of the storm damage incurred by local authorities in October.
§ Mr. ChopeI refer the hon. Member to the answer my right hon. Friend gave on 19 November at column669.
§ 73. Mr. ClellandTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what representations he has received from local authorities in response to his departmental letter of 23 October detailing special financial assistance for storm damage.
§ Mr. ChopeI have received numerous representations from local authorities about the special financial assistance scheme for storm damage.
§ 78. Mrs. FyfeTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment if he has any further proposals in respect of assisting local authorities to meet the cost of the October storms; and if he will make a statement.
§ 79. Mr. BellinghamTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what progress has been made in compensating local authorities for the recent storm damage.
§ Mr. ChopeMy right hon. Friend has already announced details of the scheme of special financial assistance that is being made available to local authorities, and has made clear that we will interpret claims reasonably and flexibly. My Department has now issued a claim form and guidance to local authorities for use in requesting special financial assistance and additional capital allocations this year. A copy has been placed in the Library. Claims under the scheme must be with the Department by 31 January 1988.