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Written question asked by Neil Hudson (Conservative) on Wednesday, 15 July 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 2 September 2026 (named day). It was answered by Emma Hardy (Labour) on Wednesday, 2 September 2026 on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

Water Companies: Emergencies

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what steps she is taking to ensure that water companies support those on the Priority Services Register during emergency incidents.

Answer

Under the Security and Emergency Measures Direction 2022 (SEMD), water companies must identify and prioritise vulnerable customers during supply interruptions. They must maintain a Priority Services Register (PSR) to identify those needing extra support in emergencies, including priority access to alternative water supplies. Ofwat provides PSR guidance, and the Drinking Water Inspectorate regulates compliance with SEMD.

During sustained or large-scale water supply incidents, Defra regularly engages with water companies. Support for vulnerable customers, including those on PSR, is routinely discussed, and companies must demonstrate that appropriate arrangements are in place.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
19128
Session
2026-27
Subjects
Emergencies Standards Water companies
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk