00:00the people that need it.
00:03David Chabot, Liberal Democrats, both of the members.
00:06Mr Speaker, the recent floods in Monmouthshire have been devastating for local communities,
00:10and our thoughts are with everyone affected as they try to return to some sense of normality.
00:16And I'd also like to pay tribute to the emergency services and everyone who worked so tirelessly
00:20to keep residents safe throughout this event.
00:23Last year, we saw attempts by multiple fire and rescue authorities in Wales
00:28to close small fire stations, which often house the equipment needed to respond to major floods
00:34like the ones we've just seen, with two of the proposed closures in my own constituency,
00:39in Knighton and Crick Howell, Crick Howell being just a stone's throw away from Monmouthshire,
00:45and the services that are based there often go over the border just to help them.
00:49Could she clarify, could the Under-Secretary of State clarify what engagements they've had
00:54with fire services in Wales on potential closures, and whether she agrees with me
00:59that it's vital we keep those small stations open to protect residents in rural Wales
01:05from devastating events such as the ones we've just seen?
01:09Minister.
01:11I thank the member for his question.
01:12Look, I also want to pay huge tribute to the first responders, to the emergency units,
01:18to the fire rescue service, who absolutely did an outstanding job and continue to do that
01:25outstanding job over the weekend and now and into the future, but right across Wales.
01:32And it is important that we protect those putting themselves in danger and supporting people
01:38in need.
01:39I'm happy to write to the Honourable Member about the details of the closures.
01:44And I'm happy to get back to Monmouth.
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