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Sewage Pollution: Whitburn
27 October 2021
Lead MP
Emma Lewell-Buck
Debate Type
Adjournment Debate
Tags
EconomyTaxationBrexitAgriculture & Rural Affairs
Other Contributors: 0
At a Glance
Emma Lewell-Buck raised concerns about sewage pollution: whitburn in the House of Commons. A government minister responded.
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
Ms Lewell-Buck raised concerns about raw sewage being dumped at the Whitburn end of Seaburn beach and into the North Sea for over two decades, affecting wildlife, sea life, and the local community. She highlighted the European Court of Justice's findings in 2012 and 2020 that the UK breached standards for treating wastewater at this location. The MP emphasised the ongoing damage to the beach and marine environment despite numerous complaints and a petition signed by nearly 1,000 residents. Ms Lewell-Buck criticised the government's lack of action and dismissed their recent U-turn as disingenuous.
Government Response
Minister Rebecca Pow acknowledged the concerns raised by Ms Lewell-Buck but defended her government’s commitment to protecting the environment through legislation like the Environment Bill. She clarified that there was no U-turn in policy and emphasised the ongoing investment of over £30 billion since privatisation for water infrastructure improvements. The minister outlined several measures, including setting strategic priorities for Ofwat to reduce sewage discharges from storm overflows, mandating annual data publication by water companies, and introducing near real-time reporting on discharges. She highlighted specific interventions in South Shields such as a £10 million interceptor scheme completed in 2017 that has improved bathing water quality. Minister Pow offered to meet Ms Lewell-Buck to review local environmental issues.
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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.