6. RGT – Will the First Minister make a statement on local authorities’ capital programmes? OAQ (4) 1415 (FM)

Janet Finch-Saunders:

Certainly within my own authority, the capital programme is already earmarked for existing infrastructure projects. However, following the recent flood and storm damage, we have seen some major infrastructure damage within Conwy county borough. This obviously comes against a backdrop of severe cuts and a poor financial settlement. As my colleague has rightly pointed out, this is a devolved issue. First Minister, will you allow for some emergency funding for my own authority of Conwy County Borough Council, which has suffered damage to large parts of its infrastructure to the tune of several million pounds?

The Presiding Officer:

Order. Are you coming to a question?

Janet Finch-Saunders:

Yes. First Minister, will you commit to supporting Conwy County Borough Council as it faces several million pounds-worth of damage to infrastructure as a result of the storm damage?

Carwyn Jones:

The Member puts up a good case for her area. It is a shame that the Secretary of State was not quite as strong as the Member herself. Clearly, with regard to the flood alleviation scheme, it is a matter for local authorities to apply for assistance from that scheme. An assessment has to be made first, of course, of the damage that has occurred. I understand that, in terms of Conwy county borough, an assessment is being made of the situation at Kinmel Bay, and also of whether there will be a need for such an application in the future. However, as a matter of principle, such an application is possible, but it would then have to be considered very carefully.