Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what assessment she has made of the effectiveness of the Flood Recovery Framework in providing timely support to affected households and businesses; and what steps she is taking to (a) reduce the time taken for applicants to receive payments and (b) improve the application process for applicants in (i) South Cotswolds constituency and (ii) the UK.

My thoughts are with all householders and business owners impacted by flooding, which is a devastating experience for those affected.

Following activation of the Framework for Storms Babet and Henk in 2023/24, a joint review was undertaken to improve the delivery of flood recovery grants. While the core principles of the Framework remain unchanged, in response to feedback several administrative enhancements have been introduced to streamline processes, clarify responsibilities, extend data returns/claims deadlines and the sharing of best practices. These changes will improve the system for any part of England affected.