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Water company fines to be channelled into environmental improvements

02 December 2022

Proposing MP
Suffolk Coastal
Type
Written Ministerial Statement
Department
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs

At a Glance

Issue Summary

The UK government is redirecting fines imposed on water companies that pollute rivers and seas towards environmental improvement projects.

Action Requested

Future funding from fines will be invested in environmental and water quality improvement schemes. The Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs plans to bring forward proposals to raise civil penalties for water pollution.

Key Facts

  • Since 2015, the Environment Agency has concluded 56 prosecutions against water companies with fines of over £141m.
  • Defra is proposing increased civil penalties for environmental polluters.
  • The Storm Overflows Discharge Reduction Plan will require a £56 billion investment by 2050.
Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy