Environment
Secretary Hilary Benn has spent the day in Cumbria today,
following the severe flooding that has occurred in the last 24 hours.
Hilary Benn said:
"I have spent the day in Cockermouth where the
devastating impact of the flooding is clear. My thoughts are with
all those who have been affected, and with the family of PC Bill
Barker in particular. The emergency services are getting help and
support to those affected as quickly as possible and there are
people working round the clock to do this. I want to pay tribute
to the emergency services and all the other organisations who have
been doing an outstanding job.
"The flooding in Cumbria is a result of an extreme
weather event. None of us can stop huge amounts of rain falling
from the sky but we can make sure we are as prepared as possible
which is why we have invested millions in flood defences and
protection over the years. Our new Flood Forecasting Centre also
means that we are better able to predict events like this and get
warnings to people at the earliest possible stage. However I am
determined that we learn any lessons from what has happened this week.
"I would urge everyone in the area to make sure you are
taking all sensible precautions, heed the warnings of the
emergency services, listen to local radio for updates and, most of
all, keep safe."
Notes to Editors
1. The latest flood warnings and information can be found on the
Environment Agency website at www.environment-agency.gov.uk
or by calling Floodline 0845 988 1188
Press enquiries
020 7238 6751 ;Public enquiries 08459 335577;
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