I read your story about Norman Baker's concerns over the civil contingencies bill with interest (The Argus, January 8).

Norman Baker is always active but not always right.

On this occasion, I note that human rights group Liberty has welcomed the significant concessions made by the minister, Douglas Alexander, which they say responds to most of their objections to the White Paper.

I also note that Mr Baker and the Lib-Dem council were extremely critical after the 2000 Lewes floods of the confused lines of control between different agencies in managing the flood and its aftermath, despite what he says now about the police coping with the powers they had.

As amended, the bill now sets out a sensible basis on which to respond to major emergencies, including any future floods.

I'm sure the new powers offered to the police to take charge will be welcomed by those who hope the damage of 2000 will never happen again.

-Richard Black, chairman Lewes Branch, Labour Party