Holding Water Companies to Account – No More Bailouts on the Backs of Customers

For too long, water companies have been allowed to pollute our rivers and lakes while their executives take home eye-watering bonuses. Now, the Government wants you to pay the price when these failing companies go bust. That is completely unacceptable.

Today in Parliament, Liberal Democrat MPs are forcing a vote on an amendment to the Water Bill that would protect customers from shouldering the cost of water company bailouts. Instead, creditors – not bill payers – should be responsible for covering the costs if a company collapses.

This is about fairness. Hardworking people in Cheadle should not have to pay for the failures of private water companies that have prioritised profits over investment in our vital infrastructure. We have seen sewage pumped into our rivers, water supplies mismanaged, and essential upgrades neglected leading to flooding in our area – all while top executives take home millions.

The Conservatives and Labour have refused to take meaningful action. They had the opportunity to back 44 Liberal Democrat amendments that would have strengthened environmental protections and held water companies accountable – yet they rejected every single one.

As your MP, I have campaigned tirelessly to stop sewage pollution in our local rivers and lakes. I have called out United Utilities, demanded stronger action from regulators, and pushed for tougher penalties on those who pollute our waterways. This fight is far from over.

The Government must stop protecting failing water companies and start protecting customers and our environment. The people of Cheadle deserve clean water, not higher bills.

I will keep fighting to ensure our communities are no longer left to pick up the tab for corporate negligence. It’s time for the Government to get tough on water companies – and today, they have the chance to prove they are serious about change.