JANUARY 2007 STORMS AND THE ORDNANCE SURVEY

That this House expresses gratitude to the emergency services of the UK for their unstinting efforts during the recent storms; recognises that their work in town and country is made easier and more effective by the regular provision of accurate and updated mapping and positioning; recalls with concern the added problems caused by inadequate and incompatible mapping during the Hurricane Katrina catastrophe in New Orleans and surrounding areas; recognises the invaluable round-the-clock support provided by Ordnance Survey staff to the emergency services in the UK; and calls on the Government not to endanger this vital public service and great national institution admired throughout the world, either by breaking-up Ordnance Survey, or by selling it off to the highest bidder.