Prime minister weighs into statement of principles debate

Prime minister David Cameron has urged insurers to provide “proper protection” to flood-prone properties after a Conservative MP accused the ABI of “grandstanding” in its flood talks with the government.

At this week’s prime minister’s questions, central Devon MP Mel Stride said: “Will he join me in pressing the Association of British Insurers to stop grandstanding in its negotiations with the government, to get down to the table and thrash out a deal so that my constituents can get the insurance they need?”

Cameron replied: “We need to address the insurance issue and negotiations are under way.

“I want us to get a resolution so that insurance companies provide what they are meant to provide, which is insurance for people living in their homes who want proper protection.”

Earlier this week talks between insurers and the government on how to insure flood-prone homes broke down after the government refused to consider an overdraft facility for a proposed flood insurance fund.