Farron calls for fairer deal for businesses and residents facing flood fears

South Lakes MP Tim Farron is calling for a fairer deal on insurance for businesses and householders who have been flooded in the past or are at risk of flooding.

Severe floods hit Cumbriain 2009 affecting thousands of people and leaving homes damaged and businesses threatened. While Government help has been available for "vulnerable homes" since 2008, this is due to end in June 2013.

Thanks to work done by South Lakeland District Council, flooding has since been less severe and more manageable. However, homeowners and landlords seeking flood insurance cover could face high premiums if they have experienced flooding before.

Tim is also asking for help from the Environment Agency on how best to tackle flooding. If flooding is prevented, it is hoped that premiums will be less likely to shoot up.

Tim said: "Homeowners and landlords are in a really tricky and unfair position, with some feeling like they have no choice but to move as they can't meet the insurance costs. I want the Government to protect these people, to ensure that they are not unfairly targeted by insurance companies."