EURO-MP LIZ LYNNE LOOKING INTO EUROPEAN FLOOD RELIEF

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Tue 3rd Jul 2007

West Midlands Euro-MP Liz Lynne, has been looking into possibilities of European funding to help with the region's reconstruction and recuperation after the recent bad weather.

The MEP who herself lives in Worcestershire, but escaped the worst of the weather, hopes extra help can be found if needed. Speaking today from the European Parliament in Brussels, Liz said:

"I was appalled by the conditions across the region which have caused hardship to so many local residents and will continue to investigate all possible relief options at a European level if they are needed."

"I have already tabled a question at the European Parliament and written to new Communities Secretary Hazel Blears to look into what assistance may be available."

"The UK government promised funding for flood defences across the region after the last serious flooding affected Shropshire, which never materialised. I hope that they will now take notice of the ever present threat the whole West Midlands region faces."