Written question asked by Paul Keetch (Liberal Democrat) on Friday, 6 January 2006, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 9 January 2006. It was answered by Elliot Morley (Labour) on Wednesday, 11 January 2006 on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

National Flood Forum

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what criteria were taken into account when deciding to discontinue funding of the National Flood Forum; and if she will make a statement.

Answer: Defra has policy responsibility for flood risk management in England. The Environment Agency is the principal operating authority with responsibility for flood risk management in England.I understand the Agency has agreed with the National Flood Forum Board of Directors that their core funding from the Agency will be phased out over a three-year period from December 2004 to ensure the Forum's independence from a single funding source, and allow it to establish a broader funding base. The Agency will continue to provide funding for the Forum on a project by project basis.

Secondary information