§ Mr. DrewTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if she will make a statement on the impact of water companies ending agency working with local authorities and other external agencies for the purpose of flood prevention. [27006]
§ Mr. Morley[holding answer 14 January 2002]: I am aware of no significant impact of any such action. The primary responsibility for flood defence rests with the operating authorities, i.e. the Environment Agency, local authorities and, where they exist, internal drainage boards.