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Closed Change law: OFWAT to block dividends & executive bonuses when rationing water

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Change the Water (Special Measures) Act to require OFWAT to block executive bonuses and payment of shareholder dividends in the event of water companies declaring water rationing measures.

Water companies have paid billions in shareholder dividends and bonuses while neglecting to make adequate investment in future proofing our water infrastructure to keep up with climate change or a growing population. We think the government should intervene and change the law to correct a market failure, by requiring OFWAT to apply financial penalties to shareholders and executives in the event of implementing water rationing.

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  • Related activity

    Independent Water Commission Final Report: debate in Parliament

    On 10 February, MPs debated the Independent Water Commission Final Report in Parliament.

    This was a Backbench Business debate led by Edward Morello MP. Minister for Water and Flooding Emma Hardy MP responded on behalf of the Government.

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    If this petition gets 10,000 signatures, government will respond to it.

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    This petition will stay open until 16 January 2026.