Environment - FSB Calls for Flood Review

Although Gordon Brown has announced the government will set up a review into the problems suffered by businesses as a result of the recent floods, the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) is suggesting an independent review into the floods – without political involvement.

Looking after the interests of small businesses across the UK, the FSB has lobbied government with the aim of provoking an independent review of the flood situation. Many small businesses have been effectively ‘put on hold’ since the floods. The government recognizes this and seems keen to tackle the issues head on in order to learn lessons for the future.

Already Gordon Brown has pledged to spend £800 million on flood and coastal defences around the country as well as promising taxation relief for businesses affected by the recent spate of extreme weather. Improved infrastructure and drainage systems are also planned. However, the FSB believe the politics should be removed from the process of analyzing what went wrong.

A spokesperson for the FSB said: “We need an independent review. We need to take the politics out of it…we need to look at how this situation has arisen and what we need to do in the future. It is not something you expect to have to live with.”

Mr Brown has also offered additional funding to local authorities to help finance emergency work necessary to deal with the recent floods.

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[ FSB Calls for Flood Review ]