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Independent Water Commission

Asked by David ChadwickLiberal DemocratDepartment for Environment, Food and Rural AffairsTabled Answered 21 May 2025UIN 52967

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, if he will bring forward legislative proposals to reflect the findings of the Water Commission.

Answered by Emma Hardy

The Independent Water Commission, led by Sir Jon Cunliffe, will recommend reforms to reset the water sector regulatory system and is expected to form the largest review of the industry since privatisation. It is considering a wide range of areas, as set out in the Commission’s Call for Evidence.

The Commission will report later in summer 2025 with recommendations to the UK and Welsh Governments to help restore our rivers, lakes and seas to good health, meet the challenges of the future and contribute to economic growth.

These recommendations are expected to form the basis of further legislation to attract long-term investment and clean up our waters for good.

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