Julian Raises Telecommunications Failure in York During Recent Flooding with Secretary of State
January 6, 2016
Yesterday in Parliament Julian questioned the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, Elizabeth Truss MP, on what the Government can do to ensure that key telecommunications links remain operational during a crisis.
Following the Boxing Day floods in York there was severe disruption to the city’s telecommunication network with telephone lines (including the non-emergency 101 number), internet services, and radio being affected.
Communication networks are key in crisis situations as they allow emergency services and authorities to inform residents about immediate risks and to disseminate vital information.
The Secretary of State responded to Julian’s question on telecommunications and agreed that it is vital communications infrastructure is properly protected, citing the damage to Tadcaster Bridge and Elland Bridge as other examples of where similar problems have occurred.
You can read the full exchange here: http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201516/cmhansrd/cm160105/debtext/160105-0002.htm#16010526000169
Today Julian also met with Robert Goodwill MP, Flooding Envoy for Yorkshire, to discuss the impact of the flooding and to raise questions on flood defence investment, communication networks and support for homeowners and businesses.
Speaking after the meeting Julian said, “We must ensure that we do everything we can to assist the residents and communities who experienced this devastating flooding over the Christmas period.
“In the meeting I discussed the critical importance of telecommunications infrastructure with the Minister, highlighting the vital role it plays in informing residents of local flood risks. I have spoken with constituents in more isolated areas who were very distressed by the breakdown in communications, and our focus must be on ensuring that vulnerable people in our communities are properly protected.
“I also raised the impact which the flooding has had on businesses and homes, including the flood resilience grants available to protect properties from flood water. I believe it is important that communities should be able to pool these funds and that they are given proper advice on how it can be used effectively alongside an accredited list of builders able to carry out this work.
“The additional funding which has been earmarked for improved flood defences in Yorkshire and York by the Government should also be welcomed. Whilst further investment needs to be made on the Foss Barrier and other defences in York, I believe we should also be looking at other strategic investment opportunities in the wider catchment of the Ouse upstream. Investment and additional measures outside of the city could have a real benefit for the city.”
