Agriculture: Inland Waterways
The question
To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what recent discussions she has had with water companies on reducing agricultural runoff into rivers and waterways.
Answered by Emma Hardy
In January 2026, I hosted a cross-sector roundtable, which included water industry representatives, to discuss planned reforms to agricultural pollution regulations. Engagement continues with industry, farming and environmental representatives at official level.
Regional planning will take a cross-sector approach to water management, ensuring agricultural water pollution is actively tackled. A Regional Water Planning Steering Group—established through a commitment in the Water White paper and chaired by Minister Hardy—held its first meeting with water company representatives and other stakeholders on 11 February.
We are committed to the Environment Act target to reduce agricultural nitrogen, phosphorus and sediment entering the water environment by 40% by 2038. The Environment Improvement Plan sets out clear delivery plans to achieve these targets. We are already taking action to reduce this pollution, including doubling the funding for farm inspections.
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