Written question asked by Rupa Huq (Labour) on Thursday, 4 June 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 11 June 2026 (named day). It was answered by Kanishka Narayan (Labour) on Thursday, 11 June 2026 on behalf of the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology.

Data Centres: Water Supply

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, what discussions she has had with other departments regarding the adequacy of water supplies to AI data centres.

Answer: The Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology engages regularly with her Government counterparts to discuss the importance of AI and its associated infrastructure. DSIT officials also engage regularly with relevant organisations such as DEFRA and the Environment Agency, recognising the need to ensure AI infrastructure does not compromise the resilience of public water supplies. The Government will continue to support AI infrastructure growth while protecting water supplies and the local environment, ensuring that the growth of the sector is stable and sustainable.

Secondary information