Bonuses deemed unfair have been banned for senior executives at six water companies, including Southern Water, with the new rules coming into effect today.
The government regulation aims to hold water companies accountable by preventing bonus payouts to executives whose firms fail to meet environmental and customer service standards.
Southern Water responded by defending its current bonus system, stating that rewards are already closely tied to performance improvements. The company also clarified that bonuses are funded by shareholders, not customers, and are signed off by an independent committee.
Environment Secretary Steve Reed said:
“We promised to put water companies under tough special measures to clean up our waterways. Today, the Government has delivered on that promise as we continue to deliver on our Plan for Change.
“Polluting water bosses will no longer be paid undeserved bonuses. And if they break the law over water pollution, they could end up in the dock and face prison time.
“This is just the beginning. The Independent Water Commission will report back later this year to shape new laws that will transform our water system so we can clean up our rivers, lakes, and seas for good.”
The announcement comes amid growing public concern over sewage pollution and the environmental impact of water companies across the UK.
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