Written question asked by Bob Blizzard (Labour) on Monday, 13 November 2000, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 27 November 2000. It was answered by Lord Spellar (Labour) on Monday, 27 November 2000 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Ministry of Defence

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, What contingency plans his Department has made for the armed forces to provide assistance to communities affected by flooding. (Failed OPQ)

Answer: Mr. Blizzard: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what contingency plans his Department has made for the armed forces to provide assistance to communities affected by flooding. [138593] Mrs. Lawrence: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what contingency plans his Department has made for the armed forces to provide assistance to communities affected by flooding. [138597] Mr. Spellar: Armed forces support to communities threatened by flooding or other natural disasters is provided through contacts between local military headquarters, the emergency services, and local authorities, using tried and tested procedures. Local commanders have the authority to respond immediately to requests for assistance if they believe lives to be in danger, or if the emergency services have no alternative to military assistance. These procedures worked very effectively during the recent floods with more than 60 units of the armed forces providing support to the emergency services in 15 different counties. In addition, personnel from TA units also provided valuable assistance.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 357 c414W; 138593
Session: 1999-00
Question not reached: Yes
Subjects: Armed forces Flood control Emergency services Floods Natural disasters Military aid
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk