I’ve received hundreds of messages from constituents over the past few years about the impacts of water privatisation, and that number has risen sharply following the Channel 4 docudrama Dirty Business.
The programme follows a decade-long investigation into sewage-contaminated waterways by campaigners Ashley Smith and Peter Hammond, focusing on the actions of water companies in Oxfordshire.
Tens of thousands of people have reported becoming ill after swimming in water contaminated with sewage. One widely reported case is that of Heather Preen, who tragically died at the age of eight after contracting E. coli following a visit to a beach in Devon.
Since privatisation over thirty years ago, water companies have reportedly paid out around £85 billion in dividends to shareholders, while some households now face proposed bill increases of up to 40%. This suggests the current model of water ownership is failing both the public and the environment.
The government’s Water (Special Measures) Act will strengthen regulation and accountability across the sector. It introduces personal liability for water company executives, powers to restrict bonuses where environmental standards are not met, and tougher automatic fines for pollution offences.
Proposals in the Water White Paper include a single water regulator, stronger enforcement powers such as no-notice inspections, and an ‘MOT-style’ system of infrastructure checks.
But more must be done. The government should introduce a new Water Bill to further prevent pollution, curb excessive profiteering, and protect our rivers, lakes, and coasts for future generations.
