Philip Dunne MP is urging MPs and the public to give their support to his Bill to help clean up Britain’s rivers from sewage pollution, to help deliver cleaner water in our local rivers and waterways.

The Sewage (Inland Waters) Bill 2019-21 was introduced by Ludlow MP Philip Dunne and has its Second Reading in the House of Commons on 13th November 2020. The Bill places a duty on water companies to ensure that untreated sewage is not discharged into rivers and other inland waters.

It proposes several other measures, including:

• improving transparency and monitoring of the impact of spillages on water quality;
• separating surface and foul water drainage systems from new infrastructure and housing development;
• encouraging nature-based solutions for wastewater treatment;
• requiring water meters for all homes being leased, rented or sold from 2025;
• prohibiting use of plastic in flushable products;
• promoting improvements in bathing water standards for inland waters and rivers.

The Bill already enjoys the support of The Rivers Trust, The Angling Trust, Surfers Against Sewage, Wildlife Trusts, Wildlife & Countryside Link, RSPB, Salmon & Trout Conservation, Freshwater Habitats, Bug Life, Waterkeeper Alliance, London Waterkeeper, Windrush Against Pollution, Sewage Free Swimmers, Blue Marine Foundation, Outdoor Swimming Society, British Canoeing, Royal Lifesaving Society, Marinet UK, and the Institute of Fisheries Management.

Mr Dunne said:

“Rivers are important to people all over the country, both for health through recreation and wellbeing, and as vital habitats for wildlife. It’s shocking to read how many hours sewage was discharged into our rivers in the last year alone. So, I am asking the public to get in touch with their MP, and ask them to support the Bill by attending the 2nd reading in Parliament, and working with local water companies to improve the quality of our beloved rivers.

I am pleased to have the support of so many organisations committed to ending sewage pollution in our rivers. Members of the public can support the campaign here: https://www.sas.org.uk/EndSewagePollution-SewageBill or show support by tweeting #EndSewagePollution, #TogetherForRivers and #AnglersAgainstPollution”.