MP WELCOMES FURTHER REVIEW OF POSTCODE LINKAGE OF COLD WEATHER PAYMENTS

12.00.00am GMT Mon 5th Nov 2001

Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross MP John Thurso has received confirmation that following the linking of postcode IV27 to the weather station at Cassley for cold weather payments, the Met Office will formally consider the proposed linkage of KW11 and IV28.

Commenting on the letter from Martin Sands at the Met Office, John Thurso said:

"Although the Department for Work and Pensions has advised that no further changes can be made to the regulations already laid down for the coming winter, I am delighted that it will think again for next year. The Met Office conceded that there are two very distinct climatic areas in the region. The area covered by KW11 and IV28 is not great and in terms of population number is very small indeed. It does, however, contain a handful of communities - Kinbrace, Strathnaver, Forsinard, Achentoul and Rogart - which frequently enjoy very extreme winter weather conditions. They certainly warrant inclusion with the other landward communities."