Water bills: Ofwat must block “insulting” price hikes 

EMBARGO: 00:01 Thursday 11th July 

The Liberal Democrats are calling for Ofwat to stop water companies from implementing large water bill hikes. 

It comes as some water companies have demanded a 50% increase in bills despite polluting rivers, lakes and coastlines with raw sewage. 

During the general election, the Liberal Democrats called for Ofwat to be abolished and a new water regulator established with greater powers. 

The Liberal Democrats are demanding Ofwat use the existing powers they have to crackdown on large water bill rises. The party is also calling on the government to implement a ban on water company executive bonuses until discharges and leaks end. 

Liberal Democrat Environment spokesperson Tim Farron MP said: 

“Any insulting price hikes by water companies must be blocked.

“It is a national scandal that these disgraced firms are demanding more money from families and pensioners in a cost of living crisis, all whilst dumping raw sewage into our rivers.

“After years of Conservative Ministers letting these shameful polluters get away with it, we now need tough action, starting with a ban on bonuses and a block on large bill hikes. 

“Communities spoke loudly at the election, demanding an end to the sewage scandal and water firms stuffing their pockets with bonuses and dividends. The government and regulator must listen to the country.”

ENDS