20 January 2026 – Responding to the Government’s White Paper on water sector reform
Responding to the Government’s White Paper on water sector reform, Marcus Rink, Chief Inspector of Drinking Water said:
“The Drinking Water Inspectorate welcomes the Government’s efforts to drive improvements to the water sector. As the regulator responsible for drinking water quality in England and Wales, it remains committed to working with government, industry and fellow regulators, to ensure protection of public health remains the top priority.”
“It is for the UK and Welsh Governments to lead on policy matters such as the White Paper. The Inspectorate will continue to contribute its expertise and regulatory insight to help achieve the best outcomes for public health now and for the future.”
“The Inspectorate has been recognised as a highly effective regulator, commanding respect across the sector and helping to maintain world-leading drinking water quality. It will continue to deliver its statutory duties, including the regulation of cyber and physical security under the NIS and SEMD frameworks, with rigour and independence. Protecting public health remains the Drinking Water Inspectorate’s primary objective.”