To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what recent discussions he has had with insurance industry representatives on proposals within the Thames Gateway Interim Plan area to build homes in areas vulnerable to flooding; and if he will make a statement. (197241)

DEFRA is involved in discussions with the Association of British Insurers (ABI) at official and ministerial level. The Government works with the ABI to maximise the availability of flood insurance cover which remains available to the great majority of households in areas of flood risk.

The Environment Agency has had continued dialogue with the ABI regarding the Thames Estuary 2100 Project. Both the ABI and individual insurers have been invited to participate in Environment Agency consultations which have been designed to develop the draft Final Plan (which will, in turn, go out to consultation in spring 2009).

The Environment Agency has not had specific engagement with the ABI regarding current development and flood risk in the Thames Gateway, but the Agency does apply the guidance set out in PPS25 (Development and Flood Risk).