In England and Wales, new legislation has come into effect imposing tougher penalties on water company executives who obstruct investigations into sewage spills, including possible prison sentences of up to two years. This regulatory change aims to deter illegal activities within the water sector in light of the alarming findings from a recent National Audit Office report. The report criticizes government and regulatory bodies for insufficient management and investment in the water sector, leading to declining consumer trust and rising water bills. Environment Secretary Steve Reed emphasized the need for accountability, given past instances of non-punishment for water executives despite illegal practices.
Lucy Hooker Getty Images Law-breaking water company executives face tougher punishments, including possible prison sentences, under new powers that have come into force in England and Wales.
Bosses who fail to co-operate or obstruct investigators looking into sewage spills can now be jailed for up to two years.
The government said the new powers to punish executives were needed because in the past water companies had failed to hand over vital evidence related to illegal sewage discharges.
It's shocking that not a single water executive faced a fine, let alone a prison sentence, despite widespread law-breaking.
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