The prosecution of Thames Water for pollution offences and its fine of £20.3 million was right and proper but there should be no triumphalism in the outcome.

The pollution that occurred between 2012 and 2014 was disastrous for the environment and distressing for the public. It is clear that there was a series of failures by management which lead to repeated discharges of untreated or poorly treated raw sewage into rivers. Of particular interest was that these failures occurred at sewage works in Henley and Littlemore (amongst other places) on the edge of the constituency.

The reports on the incidents make depressing reading. However, what is important moving forward is that Thames Water has addressed the problems and made significant changes to management to try to prevent this ever happening again. I am grateful too that I was able to persuade Thame Water to address a serious sewage problem in the village of Sydenham with significant investment. In order to be able to see the changes that have been made in management by Thames Water and in the operation of their sewage works I have asked to visit Thames Water sites.

I am pleased that Thames Water has acknowledged the failures and in a briefing to me have set out the many changes that have been made. The treatment of sewage is a complex business. I am also pleased to learn that the company has made substantial investment for projects to help rivers, wildlife and the local environment.”

Thames Water will be holding open days later this year at sites where incidents took place so that local people and other stakeholders can see what has been done.

One concern from constituents has been over who pays in the end. Thames Water has made a statement that the fine will not increase customers’ bills but will be paid by shareholders.

John Howell OBE MP FSA

Member of Parliament for Henley

Member of the Council of Europe Prime Minister’s Trade Envoy to Nigeria

House of Commons

London,

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