MP Mike Foster (above) applauds his government over a possible £100,000 flood barrier funding for Worcester.

And quite rightly - since it was, of course, his government which cut the previous £22m flood relief grants shared between 54 authorities down to £14m and to be shared between 156 authorities.

He does, however, frequently remind us that Worcester people do not pay enough council tax, when compared to our neighbouring counties.

Does his offer to now support bids for additional government funding come with tax rises?

Is it possible, that for political reasons, he failed to support the previous presentation to government made by Worcester city council?

So - in keeping with New Labour, are we looking again at yet more increased taxation?

BRIAN HUNT,

Worcester.