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

To ask His Majesty's Government what action they are taking to ensure housing stock built in areas susceptible to flooding is adequately protected from flooding risks.

The government recognises the devastating impact flooding can have on communities. National Planning Policy is clear that development should be directed to areas with the lowest risk of flooding. Where no alternative sites are available, permission should only be granted where it can be demonstrated that it will be safe for its lifetime taking account of the vulnerability of its users, without increasing flood risk elsewhere, and, where possible, will reduce flood risk overall.