NatWest/RBS has launched a £250m UK Storm Business Fund which could help farms affected by the recent floods and gales, in a development welcomed by the NFU.

The short-term, interest-free loans are aimed at speeding a return to normal trading and can cover the cost of repairs and damage.

Find out more

Natwest/RBS UK Storms Business Fund helpline: 0800 529 8544

Loans will be provided for three months, offering businesses breathing space to get back on their feet.

The fund is available for all viable businesses affected by the storms, not just existing NatWest/RBS customers. An accompanying package of 'emergency measures' includes repayment holidays on existing small business loans, temporary credit card limit increases and fast-track requests for temporary overdraft increases.

NFU Deputy President Meurig Raymond said the money could provide useful relief in the short-term.

But he reiterated a call for longer-term government funding of river maintenance. And he stressed the need for a balance between investment in larger capital flood defence projects, which primarily serve urban areas, and work on our waterways.

"Without adequate funding being made available to maintain waterways, flooding problems will only increase, Mr Raymond said.

"The NFU recognises that the amount of funding available is limited. But £20 million spent annually on river maintenance is not enough to do the job effectively.

"Maintenance is a key issue for farmers as regular periodic works maintains conveyance and capacity within the river system. This means floodwater can return to the river system quickly and reduces the extent and duration of any flooding.

"The whole of the environment - both rural and urban - is affected by flooding and it is important that money is invested in all areas. Many rural areas have been flooded by water that otherwise could have affected nearby towns and cities.

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