Commons Sense

House of Commons · Adjournment Debate

River Otter: Sewage Pollution

18 June 2026 · 0 other contributors

Opened by Richard Foord Lib Dem Honiton and Sidmouth

NHSEnvironment

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Richard Foord raised concerns about river otter: sewage pollution in the House of Commons. A government minister responded.

Key points

  • MP for Honiton and Sidmouth raised concerns about bacterial contamination and phosphate pollution in the River Otter due to sewage.
  • The Minister acknowledged the seriousness of the issue and mentioned actions such as stricter enforcement and investment in infrastructure.
  • The Minister noted that South West Water has not met expected standards and highlighted the introduction of new legislation to address the problem.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Richard Foord Lib Dem Honiton and Sidmouth

The MP for Honiton and Sidmouth raised concerns about sewage pollution in the River Otter, highlighting bacterial contamination, phosphate pollution, and the failure of South West Water to meet its commitments. He emphasised the impact on local communities, including environmental degradation, health risks, and constraints on housing developments. The speech acknowledged the dedication of citizen scientists like Bruce McGlashan from ORCA but called for urgent action from water companies, regulators, and the government.

Government Response

Mary Creagh

The Minister responded by acknowledging the seriousness of the issue and outlining actions taken by the Labour Government to address sewage pollution. She noted that South West Water has not met expected standards and highlighted regulatory measures such as stricter enforcement, ring-fencing investment for infrastructure upgrades, and introducing new legislation like the Water (Special Measures) Act 2025. The Minister also addressed specific concerns about bonuses for executives and the loss of blue flag status at Budleigh Salterton beach. She committed to further action in the upcoming Clean Water Bill to improve water management and prevent pollution.

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