In other developments, experts have been critical of a government decision to give the green light for farmers to clear streams and drainage ditches without seeking permission.

The Centre for Ecology and Hydrology has been critical of this policy change, affecting England only, stating that it could increase the flooding risk in towns.

Farmers currently receive payment from the EU's CAP policy for keeping their land in good condition.

Farmers could be rewarded for designating land to be heavily affected by rain under the flooding farmland grand plans, to prevent excess water flooding property in towns and villages downstream.

NFU deputy president Minette Batters said the flood scheme should be planned, rather than a form of ad hoc compensation.

This would reverse the normal situation in which farmers are urging the authorities to protect their land against flooding.