Kent MP: tougher fines for water companies breaking polluting rules
Chatham and Aylesford MP Tris Osborne tells us he wants to see further work around the issue of pollution.
A Kent MP has told us they want to see tougher fines for water companies bosses that break rules around pollution.
Last year dangerous chemicals were found in the River Medway which can cause cancer, breathing problems and harm to insects and wildlife.
Chatham and Aylesford MP Tris Osborne said:
"We need to look at the bonus culture around some of the senior executives in certain water companies; people shouldn't get performance-related pay for dumping poo in the river, which is the perception, I think, with the public at the moment.
"Hopefully we can tighten legislation around fines for water companies, some of which have been making significant profits over the last 15-20 years. We're going to try and ensure those fines go back into the public purse to help improve that infrastructure.
"I want to be doing work with advocates to push this as much as possible. There's a lot more to do and this is part of a much bigger effort by the Government on water; this is just part of a wider move on legislation, which I think includes strengthening the regulator".