Plans for a 'flood tax' which provoked outrage among householders are likely to be scrapped by the Government.

Earlier this month, we revealed residents who live in at-risk properties could be asked to pay a special charge for new defences.

The proposal would replace the existing system, where householders across the region share the burden via council tax.

Now floods minister Elliot Morley has suggested the scheme, which was drawn up by independent consultants, would be scrapped.

He told MPs: "Among the ideas that have been suggested, that is the one I am less enthusiastic about.

"I think it is right we have an open debate about the best way of raising funds. We will wait for responses and listen to them very carefully and respond in due course."

He added: "I quite accept some of the ideas are more attractive than others."

Business owners and residents in places such as Lewes, Uckfield and Chichester, who have barely recovered from the devastation of the October 2000 floods, have slammed the proposal.