Lords debates Water (Special Measures) Bill

The Water (Special Measures) Bill seeks to strengthen the power of water industry regulators and put failing water companies under special measures.

Debate on the draft law

During second reading, members discussed the main topics in the bill and drew attention to specific areas of concern where they believe amendments (changes) are needed.

Members speaking

Baroness Hayman of Ullock (Labour), minister for biosecurity at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, opened the debate and responded on behalf of the government.

Contributing members included:

• Baroness McIntosh of Pickering (Conservative), vice president of the Association of Drainage Authorities (ADA)
• Baroness Parminter (Liberal Democrat), advisory board member of River Action
• Baroness Young of Old Scone (Labour), chair of the Labour Climate and Environment Forum.

Catch up

• Watch the Parliament TV recording.
• Read the Lords Hansard transcript.

Explore background information

Find out more about the issues the debate covers in the House of Lords Library briefing.

Next steps

Committee stage, the first chance for line by line examination of the bill, is scheduled to begin on Monday 28 October.

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