Environment Agency to Slash 1,500 Front-line Staff

The Environment Agency is to slash around 1,500 jobs in flood protection services in England as the country prepares to be battered by a huge storm. The loss of hundreds of front-line staff could mean the country's ability to deal with floods could be at risk, according to the Daily Telegraph. The move will see around 15% of the organisation's staff slashed in order to save money by October. The news comes as The Environment Agency has issued 21 severe flood warnings and has told people living along the west and south coasts of England and Wales to expect flooding and to take immediate action to stay safe. At present, there are also 231 flood alerts, warning people to be prepared, and 193 flood warnings, meaning flooding is expected. The Met Office has also issued severe weather warnings for many parts of the UK, including the west of Scotland, Northern Ireland and the west and south coasts of England and Wales. Written by Ian Silvera Presented by Alfred Joyner