VerbatimParliament, as it happens

Drownings

Asked by Josh Fenton-GlynnLabourDepartment for Environment, Food and Rural AffairsTabled Answered 7 September 2026UIN 19247

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, if she will have discussions with the Prime Minister on appointing a minister responsible for drowning prevention.

Answered by Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs

Water safety and drowning prevention are of critical importance and involve a range of organisations and government departments. Defra works with navigation authorities, regulators, water companies and other government departments to improve coordination, information sharing and preparedness.

In July, I convened a cross-government roundtable to discuss water safety and ensure departments and key partners are working together to reinforce the importance of water safety and strengthen collaboration to help keep people safe around water.

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