§ Mr. David AtkinsonTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what special financial assistance will be made available for coastal authorities in response to the damage caused by recent storms; and if he will make a statement. [106310]
§ Ms Beverley HughesLocal authorities have statutory powers to deal with emergencies and are expected to budget accordingly. They may apply for additional financial assistance where there is a case for doing so under existing rules. All local authorities were sent copies of the current guidance notes and thresholds on 26 February 1999. To date we have received no applications in respect of the recent storms.