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Sewage Discharges
19 April 2022
Lead MP
Tim Farron
Debate Type
General Debate
Tags
EconomyAgriculture & Rural Affairs
Other Contributors: 1
At a Glance
Tim Farron raised concerns about sewage discharges in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
The Bill aims to address the issue of legal sewage discharges by water companies which have polluted rivers, lakes, and coastal areas across England. It proposes mandatory targets for ending these discharges, strengthening Ofwat's powers, requiring quarterly reports on their impact, and mandating environmental representatives on water company boards. The current system allows profits while disregarding ecological damage; in 2021 alone, there were 772,000 legal sewage discharges with United Utilities contributing significantly despite high profits.
Tim Farron
Lib Dem
Westmorland and Lonsdale
Describes the bill's purpose to set mandatory targets for ending sewage discharges, enforce accountability through Ofwat, require environmental impact reports from water companies, and ensure that representatives of local environmental groups are on company boards. Emphasises the ecological and economic impacts of pollution, highlighting United Utilities' record despite high profits.
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About House of Commons Debates
House of Commons debates take place in the main chamber of the House of Commons. These debates cover a wide range of topics including government policy, legislation, and current affairs. MPs from all parties can participate, question ministers, and hold the government accountable for its decisions.