Context
Data published in The Guardian revealed that Thames Water discharged 50% more raw sewage last year compared to the previous year. Thames Water is also accumulating billions of pounds in extraordinary debt while failing to meet its targets for river cleanliness.
Question
Data published this week in The Guardian revealed that 50% more raw sewage was discharged by Thames Water last year than in the previous 12 months. Thames Water is racking up billions of pounds of expensive extraordinary debt, while continuing to pump tonnes of sewage into our rivers. Despite bold targets and kind words, there is simply no action on cleaning up our rivers. What will the Government do to improve Thames Water’s performance?
Answer from The Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Steve Reed)
The Government are taking steps to improve the performance of all water companies, including through the Water (Special Measures) Act 2025, which I spoke about earlier. Sir Jon Cunliffe is leading a review of the entire sector, so that we can reform regulation and, if need be, the regulator, to ensure that they are fit for purpose.
Not addressed: The specifics of how Thames Water’s performance will improve were not addressed
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