Sewage Pollution
I agree we must clean up our waterways. Their destruction is unacceptable and the sewage spilling into our rivers, lakes and seas is a national disgrace.
I supported the landmark Water (Special Measures) Act 2025,s a major step forward in reforming and fixing the broken water system.
Water company bosses can now face imprisonment for lawbreaking. The water regulator, Ofwat, will be able to ban the payment of bonuses if environmental standards are not met, and there are powers to introduce automatic and severe fines against water companies. Water companies will also have to install real-time monitors at every sewage outlet, and they will be held accountable against a new code of conduct.
Water companies must also publish specific plans to tackle sewage pollution in local communities and explain how they are using natural and sustainable solutions to clean up our waterways.
I am pleased the Government has banned unfair bonuses for bosses at six water companies. Like anyone else, water company bosses should only get bonuses for performing well and not if they have failed to tackle water pollution.
Sir Jon Cunliffe is currently undertaking the biggest review of the water sector since privatisation. This review will make recommendations to deliver long-term benefits, restore water bodies to good health, provide a reliable and efficient supply of water in a changing climate, and serve both customers and the environment. I understand the full report is due to be published later this year, and the Government will consult on its proposals.
I support action to ringfence money for investment in water infrastructure so it cannot be diverted for bonuses or dividends. Where money is unspent, it will be returned to customers. I know Ofwat has also announced £104 billion of private sector investment over the next five years to build and upgrade water infrastructure across the country. It will help create thousands of jobs, build 1.5 million homes, support major infrastructure projects and power new industries.
I pay tribute to all campaigners nationwide who have been drawing attention to this important issue, and to those who work and deal with sewage overflows, working on the frontline and sometimes facing appalling levels of abuse.