Labour launched an attack on the government yesterday for slashing millions from flood protection funding after it was forced to fork out an extra £130 million to help councils deal with the latest storm damage.

Local Government Secretary Eric Pickles promised yesterday £30m flood funding this year and £100m next year during an emergency statement in the Commons.

In his statement Mr Pickles said: "Emergency work and repairs started during December's coastal surge, however, the full picture of the damage caused to the flood defences has not yet emerged and the weather conditions are still savage.