OTLEY'S MP is pushing for a date to meet the Government's Floods Minister.

Greg Mulholland (Lib Dem, Leeds North West) has already secured, in principle, a meeting between Rory Stewart and all the MPs who have constituencies along the River Wharfe.

Mr Mulholland is keen to discuss what can be done to prevent repeats of the serious flooding which affected many people in the are during the Christmas holidays.

Mr Stewart confirmed last week that he was happy for the meeting to take place, but Mr Mulholland says it needs to happen quickly.

He said: "I welcome the willingness from ministers to meet with all Wharfedale MPs, but they now need to confirm a date for the meeting as this is a serious matter.

"The overflowing of the River Wharfe affected many homes, businesses and farms badly, and I have long argued for strengthening local flood defences.

"We need to be better prepared against future flooding, and the sooner we can discuss this the better, so I would urge ministers to confirm the date for the meeting as soon as they can.