(Lab): My Lords, this
past week has seen the publication of a report by Surfers Against
Sewage It detailed an increase in sewage
discharges as a result of which, one in every six days in the
swimming season was declared “unswimmable”. There are also
reports, just referred to by the Minister, of new investigations
of widespread, unpermitted releases of sewage by water companies,
which they are now admitting to. Given the urgency of the
situation, has the Minister—beyond his concluding remarks on the
Environment Bill—any updates on the timescale for progressively
reducing sewage discharges, on bringing forward the Government’s
own plan currently scheduled for next September, or on any other
plans for new measures?
The Minister of State, Department for the Environment, Food and
Rural Affairs and Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office
( of Richmond Park)
(Con): I very much agree with the comments of the noble
Baroness and strongly welcome the work of Surfers Against
Sewage which has worked wonders in putting this
issue at the top of the political agenda, where it belongs. On
the back of that pressure, this House mobilised in a very
effective way and that strengthened the hands of those in
government who are keen to push the issue further. On timescale,
the Government can use our direction-making powers in the
drainage and sewage management plans to direct companies to take
more action if needed. We will provide a further definition of
what that means, and the ambition that we are working to, in
early 2022—a few months’ time.
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