Labour’s water policy stinks

9 Nov 2026

Over two years into office, Labour are still allowing water companies to poison our rivers and coastlines with sewage. After years of the Conservatives turning a blind eye, we expected far better from a Government that promised action.

Last week, the Government announced eight new regional water councils to ‘hold water companies to account’, dressing them up as community empowerment.

Yet the Secretary of State herself couldn't spell out a single power these councils will have to stop our waterways being trashed - just watch her car crash interview here.

Without any real powers to hold water companies accountable, these councils simply provide cover for the next decade of inaction.

Bill payers will continue to face ever rising charges, water companies will continue to ramp up record debt, and wildlife and human health will continue to be at risk.

What we need is a new Clean Water Authority with the muscle to hold water companies properly to account:

With no sight of the long promised Water Bill to deliver the urgent reform we need, the Government’s plans are as clear as the water in our sewage-stained rivers.

If they don’t publish a comprehensive plan by the end of this year, Andy Burnham must come to parliament and explain why.

Families paying ever higher bills can’t wait years for a 10-year plan to start.

You can join our campaign to stop sewage dumping buy signing here Stop Sewage Dumping - Liberal Democrats