VerbatimParliament, as it happens

Droughts

Asked by David ReedConservativeDepartment for Environment, Food and Rural AffairsTabled Answered 13 July 2026UIN 16805

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, when the National Drought Group last reviewed drought preparedness plans; and what the findings were.

Answered by Emma Hardy

The National Drought Group, chaired by the Environment Agency, last met on 18 June 2026 to review drought preparedness and assess water resource conditions. The Group concluded that although drought risk was currently low with most companies reporting adequate water resources, further heatwaves may change this assessment. It was agreed continued monitoring and early preparedness action was required in response to hot, dry weather.

Verbatim has judged this answer against the question that was actually asked — answered, partly answered, or evaded. Sign in to see the verdict →

Open this question in Verbatim →

Every written question, searchable

155,000 questions tabled since the election, with the answer each department gave — and the ones still unanswered, with the clock running. Free to search.

Search written questions →Read on Verbatim