Environment Agency Funding 2024-02-01
2024-02-01
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
Recent storms have highlighted concerns about the adequacy of Environment Agency funding.
What assessment he has made of the adequacy of Environment Agency funding levels in the context of recent storms?
The Environment Agency's budget this year is £1.96 billion, which is an increase of more than £700 million since 2015. We closely monitor the quantum and how we ensure we get value for money.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not provide a clear assessment or specific figures related to adequacy in context of recent storms, only general funding increase.
General Statement
Response accuracy
Q2
Direct Answer
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Context
In Somerset, after significant flooding in 2014, there have been ongoing issues with regular flooding impacting homes and farmland.
Following the 2014 flooding, what steps is the Secretary of State taking to protect homes in Somerset from flooding and to ensure that floodwater is efficiently and effectively pumped away from farmland?
We set up the Somerset Rivers Authority partnership and secured an extra £80 million of targeted funding for Somerset. That targeted action is enabling the area to be more resilient, but there is further work to do.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The number of cormorants roosting permanently inland has risen significantly, impacting freshwater fish.
Will the Secretary of State meet me and representatives of the Angling Trust to discuss this issue?
It is always a pleasure to meet my hon. Friend. Yesterday, we announced two major positive steps: closing English waters to sand eel fishing and announcing 13 marine designated areas equivalent in size to Suffolk.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not confirm a meeting with Charles Walker or the Angling Trust but shifted focus to recent announcements about seabird protection.
Changed Subject
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
Farmer Henry Ward experienced extensive flooding due to river breaches, with the Environment Agency unable to repair them promptly.
When will the Government realise that their failure to be decisive is costing farmers their livelihoods?
The water Minister has met with individual farmer Henry Ward on his farm. We are actively working with internal drainage boards to empower them in this context.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not provide a clear timeline or commitment for repairing flood damage.
General Statement
Shift Focus
Response accuracy