Sewage: Conservative MPs vote to weaken Ofwat powers 

EMBARGO: Immediate release

• Government votes through controversial changes which are opposed by environmental groups, who warn it will diminish action on sewage 

• Lib Dems say vote will leave water regulator with “one hand tied behind their back” in fight against sewage dumpers 

• Government introduces “Growth Duty” changes which could allow water firms off the hook for sewage discharges 

This afternoon, Conservative MPs have voted in favour of weakening the water regulator’s ability to take enforcement action on water companies. 

The Liberal Democrats forced MPs to vote on the government's new proposals to ensure any regulator imposing a fine or action on a company, must ensure it does not impact economic growth. This new Statutory Instrument, known as the “Growth Duty” could allow water companies to escape fines for sewage pollution.

Environmental groups including the Wildlife and Countryside Link and Surfers Against Sewage warned the changes will diminish regulator powers. 

Conservative MPs voted to downgrade Ofwat’s enforcement powers, despite cross-party opposition in the House of Commons. The vote takes place before the country goes to the polls in May’s Local Elections, with the sewage crisis now a top issue for the public. 

Liberal Democrat Environment spokesperson Tim Farron MP said:

“Conservative MPs have just voted to help water firms get off the hook. 

“Ofwat will now be fighting water companies with one hand tied behind their back.

“This government is all talk and no action when it comes to the sewage crisis. Time and time again Conservative MPs have voted against taking tough action on polluting firms.

“It is a scandalous vote by a government which is woefully out of touch with this environmental crisis. The public will be furious to hear the industry’s enforcer has been weakened even more. Conservative MPs should hang their heads in shame.”

ENDS

NOTES TO EDITORS

Vote results:

Ayes: 395

Nos: 50