The Government to direct Ofwat to block price rises by water providers until they meet strict environmental & service standards, including binding pollution targets, independent monitoring, stronger fines, & a ban on executive bonuses until performance & customer trust are restored.
Southern Water has, for example, repeatedly failed customers and the environment, including illegal sewage discharges and regulatory penalties. Despite this, bills continue to rise while senior executives receive high pay and bonuses. Households face cost-of-living pressures and should not fund poor management and environmental harm. Government action is needed to protect customers, enforce accountability, and ensure bill rises only follow real service improvements.