As climate change increases flood risk, the coalition government must make investment in flood defences a priority, it has been claimed.

 

Nick Starling, the Association of British Insurers' director of general insurance and health, has insisted that a long-term strategy backed by the right level of investment is crucial if people are to have their properties protected.

 

Speaking at the local government flood forum, Mr Starling remarked: We know that public spending is squeezed but cutting back on investment in flood defences would be a false economy in these tough times.

 

For every £1 spent on protecting communities from the devastating impact of floods, £8 is saved to the economy.

 

Meanwhile, the Association of British Insurers warned recently that, with open doors and windows, many properties could be targeted by opportunistic criminals in the summer season.

 

The association therefore suggested that ladders should not be left outside and that keys should also be kept out of sight.