Press briefing: afternoon 12 February
The Prime Minister’s Spokesperson (PMS) answered questions on flooding and Scotland.
Flooding
Asked about the government’s support for flood-hit homes and businesses, the PMS said government grants would be available to help those affected to invest in future flood resilience. It was right that the response recognised the significant floods seen in a number of areas. Grants to build flood resilience into homes and businesses could be applied for alongside insurance claims for damage.
A Cabinet committee had been set up to provide oversight on flood recovery policy and long term resilience. Separately, COBR meetings were still being convened to oversee the day to day flood relief response.
Asked about the deployment of Environment Agency staff, the PMS said staff from many agencies were being deployed in all affected areas.
Scotland
Asked about currency union with an independent Scotland, the PMS said the government had set out why a currency union would be highly unlikely in the event of independence. The Chancellor would give a speech on the matter the following day.