To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what factors the Environment Agency takes into account in deciding whether to waive restrictions on building in flood risk areas; and if he will make a statement. (264361)

The Environment Agency has no powers to waive restrictions on buildings in flood risk areas. As a consultee, it provides advice on the flood risk implications of development proposals. The Environment Agency's advice is intended to ensure that new development will be safe from flooding, does not increase flood risk elsewhere and takes into account climate change. This is in line with Planning Policy Statement 25—Development and Flood Risk.