VerbatimParliament, as it happens

Data Centres: Water Supply

Asked by Tonia AntoniazziLabourDepartment for Science, Innovation and TechnologyTabled Answered 17 July 2026UIN 18085

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, what assessment she has made of the potential impact of the development of AI data centres on local energy and water resources.

Answered by Kanishka Narayan

The Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology engages regularly with the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero to ensure the UK energy system supports the UK’s growing digital and AI‑driven demand. DSIT also engages closely with DEFRA and the Environment Agency, recognising the need to ensure AI infrastructure does not compromise the resilience of public water supplies.

Verbatim has judged this answer against the question that was actually asked — answered, partly answered, or evaded. Sign in to see the verdict →

Open this question in Verbatim →

Every written question, searchable

155,000 questions tabled since the election, with the answer each department gave — and the ones still unanswered, with the clock running. Free to search.

Search written questions →Read on Verbatim