British politicians have launched a formal inquiry into floods that have caused widespread damage and disruption.

Three people died on Friday as more storms swept across the country, leaving thousands of homes without power.

The House of Commons’ Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee will consider the floods’ implications and follow up on issues and recommendations raised last year.

“Severe storms and heavy rainfall continue to cause extensive flooding events across the UK, causing disruption and distress to individuals and communities and costing millions,” the committee said.

The inquiry will accept evidence until March 20 on issues including approaches to maintenance work and how funding is allocated.

Prime Minister David Cameron recently claimed money was “no object” in addressing the problem, but has since refused to say whether job losses at the Environment Agency will be halted.

The Government has agreed with the agency that the military will carry out an inspection of flood defences.