---

Bellwin Scheme

I am satisfied that financial assistance under the Bellwin scheme is justified to cover eligible costs incurred by six councils following flooding in England in January 2008. A scheme will therefore be established under section 155 of the Local Government and Housing Act 1989. Grants will be paid to the authorities to cover 85 per cent. of their eligible costs incurred above a threshold. The six local authorities are:"Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council;""Newark and Sherwood District Council;""North Lincolnshire Council;""Oxford City Council;""Vale of White Horse District Council; and""West Oxfordshire District Council"