Callum McCaig
Main Page: Callum McCaig (Scottish National Party - Aberdeen South)
Owen Thompson (Midlothian) (SNP)
6. When the Government began preparing their application to the EU solidarity fund in respect of flooding in December 2015.
Callum McCaig (Aberdeen South) (SNP)
7. When the Government began preparing their application to the EU solidarity fund in respect of flooding in December 2015.
John Mc Nally (Falkirk) (SNP)
19. When the Government began preparing their application to the EU solidarity fund in respect of flooding in December 2015.
James Wharton
The EU solidarity fund is complex, as is the application process. One needs to determine eligibility and damage. The process is still ongoing as we understand, and inform and work with the Commission about, the extent of the damage. We started the work early in January and put in an application within the deadline. We are pursuing that application now.
Callum McCaig
The flooding in December was exceptional. It had an impact across the UK, including in Deeside and Dumfries and Galloway in Scotland. Will the Minister confirm that, should the bid to the EU solidarity fund be successful, the Scottish Government will receive a fair and appropriate share of that funding?
James Wharton
We do not know how long the process will take or, ultimately, what the quantum of any award might be. In the meantime, the Government are making available significant funds of more than £200 million to support the communities affected. We continue to work with local authorities and devolved Governments to ensure that this is done properly, and we will make appropriate announcements when more information is available.