Miliband must explain Defra cuts - Huhne

5.50.48pm GMT Wed 22nd Nov 2006

Speaking at the Environment Agency annual conference today, Liberal Democrat Shadow Environment Secretary, Chris Huhne MP will challenge David Miliband to explain the source of the recent Defra cuts, which are affecting flood defence and veterinary programs.

Defra have blamed the cuts on changes in Treasury accounting rules. However, the Liberal Democrats have unearthed evidence that the mismanagement of farm subsidies at the Rural Payments Agency is behind the cutbacks.

Chris Huhne said "David Miliband must explain the reasons for the current cutbacks. His department has claimed that changes in Treasury rules are responsible. However, these rules came into effect three years ago. Why are they suddenly having an impact now?

"The Liberal Democrats have put forward five questions that Mr Miliband must answer urgently, to reassure the public.

"With rising sea-levels and an increased threat of bird-flu, now is not the time to cut funding to these priority areas."