Flooding in Lincolnshire: Prime Minister Rishi Sunak Pledges Support
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak conveyed his sympathies to the Lincolnshire residents affected by the recent flooding. The floods, significantly caused by the aftermath of Storm Babet, led to widespread displacement and destruction across the county.
Visit to Giles Academy
Mr Sunak visited the Giles Academy in Boston, Lincolnshire, on November 8. The primary agenda of his visit was to interact with young students about the hazards of smoking and to entertain their questions. His responses to the queries were monitored keenly by the local media.
The Widespread Impact of Flood
Areas across Lincolnshire suffered substantial damage due to the floods following October's heavy rainfall. Homesteads were evacuated, roads were closed due to water-logging, and even businesses had to temporarily close their doors. In some instances, farmers were compelled to relocate their livestock.
Government's Role in Prevention
When asked what measures the government is taking to avert such a calamity in the future, Mr Sunak expressed his condolences to the flood-stricken and highlighted the government's duty to provide support. He said:
"It's a really distressing time for families and communities when flooding happens so my sympathies are with them first and foremost. Over the last few years we've doubled the amount of money that we're spending on flood defences, it's actually something I announced as Chancellor. We doubled the budget to over £5 billion and that's protecting around 300,000 properties around the country. In Boston for example there was a very significant £120 million scheme, but none of that will be of any comfort to someone whose home has recently been flooded. That's why the government works with local authorities to make sure that businesses and families get the support they need at a time like that so things can get back to normal for those people as quickly as possible - and I know that that's what is happening."
Current Situation
Presently, water levels remain high in certain areas, raising concerns of continued flooding risk. The Lincolnshire County Council, however, informs that the situation is "largely improving" across the county. The village of Fiskerton remains in peril due to damage to the riverbank, which is being monitored around-the-clock by the Environment Agency.