Following the Ministerial statement on the impact of Storm Henk on communities across the UK, James Sunderland asks about discussions the Government is having with Thames Water to better protect our public health infrastructure from rainwater and floodwater and therefore limiting discharges from outflows.
James Sunderland (Bracknell) (Con)
The Minister will know that the Thames valley is also affected by Storm Henk. What discussions has he had or will he have with Thames Water with a view to better protecting our public health infrastructure from rainwater and floodwater and therefore limiting discharges from outflows?
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Robbie Moore)
During extremely heavy rainfall, which we have seen from not only Storm Henk, but Storm Babet and during the winter period, water companies have worked tirelessly to minimise the impact on customers and the environment. While the sheer volume of rainfall has meant that some storm overflows have automatically activated, the Government and the Environment Agency continue to monitor the situation closely. I make the point that back in 2010, only 7% of storm overflows were monitored; we are now at 100% storm overflow monitoring, which better enables us to ensure that our resources are targeted where they are most needed. That is the reassurance I want to provide to my hon. Friend and the House.