Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
South West Water has recently faced a record fine of £1.85 million for a cryptosporidium outbreak in Devon, prompting concerns about drinking water standards.
What steps she is taking to help improve water quality, given the concern over South West Water's failure and the Government's own Veterinary Medicines Directorate warning that pet flea treatments sold in supermarkets are washing pesticides into Britain's lakes, harming aquatic life?
The Government are serious about holding water companies accountable and maintaining high drinking water standards. A scientific group is looking at the issue of pet flea treatments and will give advice on the best course of action.
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Assessment & feedback
Commitment to reclassifying pet flea products
Under Review
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The Veterinary Medicines Directorate is concerned that pet flea treatments sold in supermarkets contain ingredients such as fipronil and imidacloprid, which are harmful to aquatic life.
Will the Minister commit to reclassifying these products so they can no longer be sold off a supermarket shelf without professional advice?
The hon. Gentleman's expertise is acknowledged, and the issue is being taken seriously by a scientific group that will provide advice on the best course of action.
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Assessment & feedback
Commitment to reclassify pet flea treatments
Under Review
Response accuracy
Q3
Direct Answer
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Context
Surfers Against Sewage joined efforts on the River Ouse to highlight the consequences of Yorkshire Water's failure in managing excessive pollution.
Does the Minister agree that we should compel water bosses to personally clean up excessive pollution and be sent into the river with overalls and wellies?
The Minister agrees on making water bosses accountable for cleaning up pollution. The Water (Special Measures) Act 2025 introduced tough accountability measures.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy