It appears many residents in the Lewes and Uckfield areas and other parts of the country are finding it impossible to get household insurance because their properties are especially at risk of flooding.

I suggest those affected make representations to the Government, which has set a precedent by acting as insurers for Huntingdon Life Sciences animal-testing laboratories, offering it worldwide cover because no other insurance company would take its business.

Trade and Industry Secretary Patricia Hewitt's offer follows the unprecedented move by the Government to offer the laboratory Bank of England banking facilities because other banks refused its custom.

Surely, if it is acceptable for taxpayers to undertake the insurance of a private company, there is good reason to offer similar help to private residents?

-Peter Allen, Chute Avenue, High Salvington, Worthing