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Priorities for Water Sector Reform
19 June 2025
Lead MP
Helena Dollimore
Hastings and Rye
Lab/Co-op
Responding Minister
Not recorded
Tags
No tags
Word Count: 2215
Other Contributors: 3
At a Glance
Helena Dollimore raised concerns about priorities for water sector reform in Westminster Hall. Response awaited from government.
Key Requests to Government:
Calls for major changes including vetting or vetoing of owners, open-mindedness about different ownership models, tighter regulation of financial practices, better oversight over complex business structures, and reform of the price review process.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
The report highlights shocking levels of sewage pollution, corporate failures in handling major incidents such as the cryptosporidium outbreak and water outages, and a lack of accountability among water bosses. It also points to an excessive focus on profits over people and environmental stewardship.
Henry Tufnell
Lab
Mid and South Pembrokeshire
Highlights poor performance in asset renewal rates, enforcement and sewage spills by Welsh Water despite its not-for-profit model and low gearing level. Argues for a radical need for renewal across the piece.
Josh Newbury
Lab
Cannock Chase
Supports exploring co-operative and mutual principles to address issues in private water companies, noting their disregard of billpayers and citizen scientists.
Lisa Smart
LD
Hazel Grove
Questions the openness of the Committee towards ownership models but suggests scrapping Ofwat and starting again with a new regulator as part of the solution.
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Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy
About Westminster Hall Debates
Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.