British government extends pledge to match funds raised for flood victims

British treasury secretary chancellor George Osborne is extending a pledge to match the funds raised to help flooding victims.

An agreement to meet up to £1 million of the cash generated by Cumbria Foundation's Flood Appeal will be increased to £2 million, ITV website reported on Saturday.

It will also be widened to include the Community Foundation for Lancashire's Flood Recovery Fund's Appeal.

Osborne said: "The Government is determined to stand by the communities affected by these devastating floods. That is why I am today doubling our pledge to match the money raised by local flood appeals to up to £2 million."

"The great work also being done by local charities will help communities get back on their feet, and we'll play our part in that too", he added.

On Wednesday, Osborne announced a £50 million fund for families and businesses affected by flooding in Cumbria and Lancashire.

Sources: MENA