Source · Select Committees · Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee
Recommendation 16
16
Accepted in Part
Repeating the same actions and expecting different results is not a well- regarded tactic for...
Recommendation
Repeating the same actions and expecting different results is not a well- regarded tactic for resolving problems. Yet the non-executives of South East Water have time and time again chosen to back a leadership that is clearly not capable of improving outcomes for customers. Their only response to the Tunbridge Wells incident is to author an unhelpful report and appoint more people to the SEW Executive to provide the constructive challenge that they themselves should be providing. On top of this, they were also the decision-maker behind an attempted and unjustifiable injunction which, we believe, is the worst example of the company’s defensive, 43 antagonistic and deceptive attitude towards external stakeholders. The only possible conclusion to draw from this evidence is that the SEW Board, potentially influenced by the “family feel” that they identify alongside the executive, is incapable of holding the executive team to account. As those ultimately represented by the Board, shareholders also must demonstrate a willingness to restore resilience and trust. A new leadership team, more investment and special measures will be necessary to affect meaningful change. (Conclusion, Paragraph 81) 44
Government response summary AI-generated
The government acknowledges that a new leadership team is in place following the resignations of the Chair and Chief Executive, stating the company must now implement necessary changes. It commits that the government and regulators will continue to work with South East Water through regular performance meetings during this transition.
Summary of the government's response below — read the verbatim text to verify.
Government Response
Accepted in Part
HM Government · verbatim extract
Accepted in Part
It is right that South East Water’s leadership has taken responsibility for the ongoing failures. The resignations of the Chair and Chief Executive reflect the seriousness of what has happened, and the company must now make the changes needed to turn its performance around. Government and regulators will continue to work with South East Water through regular performance meetings during the company’s transition to new leadership.
Read the full response on Parliament ↗