House of Commons · Written Ministerial Statement
Government Statement on Court of Appeal Judgement on River Basin Management Plans
06 May 2025 · Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
Proposed by Emma Hardy Lab Kingston upon Hull West and Haltemprice
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
At a glance
Key points
- The Court of Appeal has issued a judgment on River Basin Management Plans.
- Defra will work with the Environment Agency to implement improved river basin management planning.
- The Government plans to respond to and consult on proposals from the Independent Water Commission's report this summer.
Issue summary
The statement addresses the Court of Appeal judgment regarding River Basin Management Plans and discusses the need for comprehensive reform in the UK's water sector.
Action requested
Defra will work with the Environment Agency to deliver improved river basin management planning based on the court’s conclusions, and will lay out more detail on any revised approach as soon as practicable. The Government also plans to respond and consult on proposals from the Independent Water Commission's report this summer.
Key facts
- Court of Appeal judgment handed down on 2 April 2023.
- Defra and Environment Agency will work together to deliver improved river basin management planning.
- Independent Water Commission is reviewing water sector reform including the effectiveness of the River Basin Management Plans.
- Commission's report will be submitted to UK and Welsh Governments this summer.