Source · Select Committees · Environmental Audit Committee
Recommendation 23
23
Paragraph: 151
We therefore found the claim made by the chief executive of Severn Trent that its...
Conclusion
We therefore found the claim made by the chief executive of Severn Trent that its sewer overflow discharges were ‘pretty much already rainwater’ to be disingenuous. As water companies do not routinely test the quality of the discharges from storm overflows, they are in no position to make this claim. Discharges from overflows can be highly contaminated with raw sewage and other pollutants. To claim otherwise shows a disregard for the public’s concern about water quality in rivers.
Paragraph Reference:
151
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government
Accepted
The Government agrees with this recommendation. The Environment Agency is currently reviewing its practices in the auditing of self-monitoring of wastewater treatment works by water companies through the Improving Water Company Performance Taskforce. The March. The work will continue throughout this year. The new requirement under the Environment Act to provide real-time monitoring will also provide new intelligence to support the Environment Agency’s regulatory work, including investigations into permit breaches. The Government has been repeatedly clear that any issues of non-compliance need to be urgently addressed and remains in contact with the regulators about any fines, prosecutions or other enforcement action that is deemed necessary.