§ Mr. FlynnTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he will introduce a policy of full compensation for grants of up to 100 per cent. to local authorities to pay for emergency remedial work on properties damaged by flooding or other natural disasters.
§ Mr. David HuntIt is not my intention to introduce a policy of full compensation grants, since perfectly adequate arrangements already exist. It is for local authorities to secure the appropriate level of insurance cover towards the cost of remedial work on property damaged by flooding or other natural disasters. The Bellwin scheme of assistance provides 85 per cent. support for eligible costs incurred by local authorities in dealing with emergencies. In emergencies, such as those faced by Towyn last year, where circumstances are exceptionally severe, the Government stand ready to consider additional assistance over and above that normally available.