Insurers have reacted angrily to the government's announcement yesterday to review flood defence provision.
Insurers have reacted angrily to the government's announcement yesterday to review flood defence provision.
The Association of British Insurers said that the review, which was orginally due out in November, slows down the process of protecting homes and householders.
"It is a frustrating move," said an ABI spokesman. "We need action not words," he added.
"It's 18 months since the review was announced and in that time more householders have suffered," said the spokesman.
The ABI added: "We welcome governmnet acceptance that the Exchequer should be the main source of funding." It is understood, though, that the government could charge at-risk householder £60 per year for the maintenance of adequate flood defences.
The ABI also welcomed the proposal to bring local and regional government together to provide planning on a catchment basis.
Norwich Union has been in the vanguard of the industry's lobby reacted more cautiously. A spokeswaman said: "We welcome the opportunity to participate in the review. We need long-term solutions not short-term answers."
To view the consultation document log on to: www.defra.gov.uk
