Thank you for contacting me about our waterways.

We have three major rivers in our constituency, the Teme, the Severn and the Avon as well as many smaller waterways, and I am acutely aware of the importance of protecting them, preserving the health of those who use them and improving the local economy.

The Government has acted decisively to ensure that water companies behave responsibly when managing discharges in times of very bad weather. Water companies are now compelled to reduce the number of discharges and minimise their harmful impacts. The Environment Act has strengthened powers in this respect and water companies can face substantial fines if they transgress.

I am confident that that the action taken by the Government through the Environment Act will mean that leisure users will have greater confidence in the cleanliness of our rivers.

Thank you for sharing your concerns with me.