Source · Select Committees · Public Accounts Committee
Recommendation 27
27
Deferred
Storm Babet exposed local clarity gaps in flood response and long-term climate adaptation roles
Conclusion
During Storm Babet in 2022–23, there were 5.7 million properties in England at risk of flooding from rivers, the sea, surface water or groundwater. Over 150 rivers had record water levels and 2,200 homes were flooded. The storm hit local areas that were less used 40 Q 46 41 C&AG’s Report, paras 5 and 13 42 Dr Laiz Souto (GEX0002); St John Ambulance (GEX0004); Dr Tom Wood, Dr Saba Sadati, Dr Giuliano Punzo, Dr Martin Mayfield and Dr Hadi Arbabi (GEX0006); National Flood Forum (GEX0010); Newcastle University (GEX0012); West Midlands Combined Authority (GEX0017); Wildlife and Countryside Link (GEX0019); Local Government Association (GEX0021) 43 Qq 14, 16; C&AG’s Report, para 1.7 44 Q 39 45 Qq 14, 27; C&AG’s Report, Figures 2 and 5 and para 1.9 46 Qq 14, 15, 16, 25, 94 47 Qq 16, 18, 25; C&AG’s Report, para 3.19 Government resilience: extreme weather 17 to dealing with floods and were less clear about what was expected of them. Defra told us that one of the lessons from this storm was providing greater clarity about what the Environment Agency does and what local resilience forums (LRFs) are expected to do.48 In addition, written evidence we received highlighted that while categorised responders have clear roles and responsibilities to respond and prepare for current and short-term weather patterns, there is no clear role for them to support longer term climate adaptation which considers the actions needed to reduce the negative impacts of climate change and build resilience to climate-related shocks and stresses across all systems.49 Capacity and capability of local organisations
Government Response Summary
The government is deferring a response pending the outcome of a review of national resilience overseen by the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster.
Government Response
Deferred
HM Government
Deferred
The Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster announced that he would oversee a review of national resilience. A Treasury Minute will be published once this review has concluded. The Cabinet Office will write to the new Committee in the meantime.