Raw sewage discharged into Thames

WATER companies are continuing to discharge raw sewage into the Thames.

This has now been brought to the attention of parliament by Layla Moran  MP for Oxford West and Abingdon, who tabled a Commons Motion demanding the government make a decision to grant the Thames in Oxford bathing water status, Alan Tilbury reports.

Subject to strict testing

Such a measure would mean the river would be subjected to a strict testing regime based around public health requirements.

The motion criticised water companies for polluting rivers with sewage, which is against the 'duty to their customers' and the government inaction that allowed it to happen.

Passed cross-party motion

Oxford City Council have also passed a cross-party motion calling for an area of the Thames to receive the protection, with the MP commenting:

"The government must, working with Thames Water, ensure that our rivers are clean, so Oxford residents can swim and use our waterways safely.

"Sewage companies have a duty to their customers and filling rivers with sewage is endangering them."