The allegation that Conservative MPs have “voted to dump sewage onto beaches” is false.
Whilst I agree that the amount of sewage discharged by water companies into our rivers and seas is unacceptable, this is the first Government to set out expectations that water companies must take steps to reduce storm overflows significantly. This instruction will now be put on an enhanced legal footing.
It is only because of the increased monitoring of storm overflows – directed by this Government – that we know how bad the problem really is. Since 2016 the number of outflows monitored has increased from 6% to 90%. That is one of the main reasons why the numbers of incidents are ‘increasing’. Furthermore, since 2008 the percentage of bathing waters rated as excellent has increased from 53% to 72%.
Yet again, another vote recently took place in Parliament that was engineered for political purposes. The measures supported by opposition MPs would not have banned sewage overflows, as some falsely claim. It is estimated that the proposals would have cost £12,000 - £21,000 per household. Conservative MPs have voted to amend plans, not block them. We removed the sections that would have meant massive bills for families across the UK. These votes are cynical party politics at its worst, not a serious debate about solving the problem.
I understand how emotive and important a subject this is. I am committed to seeing the end of combined sewer discharges over time and to placing the obligation for dealing with the issue squarely on the water companies – not Cornish taxpayers.
