ONE of our best assets in North Cornwall is our stunning countryside and coastline and I know that many of you reading this will feel as passionate about this as I do – whether it’s personal enjoyment of our beautiful scenery or because you benefit from working in industries associated with the land or sea.

As I go around North Cornwall meeting more and more residents and talking to you about your concerns, one of the top issues raised is water quality and the continued dumping of sewage into our rivers and seas. So, I was staggered to hear recently that Conservative MPs have voted in favour of weakening the water regulator’s (OFWAT) ability to take enforcement action against water companies. The government's new proposals are set to ensure any regulator imposing a fine or action on a water company, must take into account the impact on economic growth. This means this new Statutory Instrument, known as the “Growth Duty” could allow water companies to escape fines for sewage pollution. Effectively, OFWAT will have one hand tied behind their back when it comes to challenging South West Water.  

Environmental groups including the ‘Wildlife and Countryside Link’ and ‘Surfers Against Sewage’ have been campaigning against this measure, warning that the changes will diminish regulator powers. There has been a shocking 81 per cent rise in the duration of sewage spills compared to the previous year, showing how the sewage scandal has worsened on the Conservative government’s watch. House of Commons research shows sewage was dumped into Cornish rivers and onto beaches on 16,672 separate occasions in 2023. This is a 47 per cent increase in the number of sewage spills in the duchy.

Despite our current MP’s rhetoric on wildlife and nature, he voted with the government to reduce OFWAT’s powers. Does he not care as you and I do about cleaning up our rivers and beaches? Everyone here is fed up with our waterways being destroyed by sewage, and it is a kick in the teeth to see our local Conservative MP vote this way in parliament. People tell me they want an MP who will finally stand up to water companies and take tough action on these polluting firms. This government is letting water companies rake in massive profits all whilst sewage discharges increase. It all stinks. 

This is why I hope I will get your support at the next General Election. As your MP, I would always listen to your concerns and fight passionately for all the things that matter most to you - including the environment. I will make sure North Cornwall’s voice is always heard in Westminster and we are not left behind.

Ben Maguire, Lib Dem Parliamentary Candidate for North Cornwall