MP BACKS HEALTHY RIVER CAMPAIGN
Local Lib Dem MP Munira Wilson has given her backing to the local campaign for Bathing Water Designation along the River Thames near Teddington.
She says: “Thank you to Ham and Kingston Bathers, Teddington Bluetits & others for their efforts. People deserve to swim, paddle & row in clean, healthy water.”
In a letter to the campaigners she states: “Unfortunately, due to the disgraceful behaviour of Thames Water and the failure of the Government to properly regulate the sector, we have seen the river being polluted by sewage discharges and other pollutants.
“As MP for Twickenham, I hear from constituents regularly about their frustration and dismay at seeing the quality of our precious river deteriorate as a result of the negligence of Thames Water.
“This is a national scandal – local communities should be able to enjoy our rivers, lakes, seas and other waterways without having to worry whether they are clean and in good health. Local residents should not have to fear for their health, simply because they wish to enjoy a swim or paddle.”
The MP adds: “Critically, Bathing Water Designation is an effective tool for stronger enforcement of environmental standards and has been used successfully in different areas around the country to do so.
“The need for increased testing allows local communities to hold water companies and Government to account. It requires Government and the Environment Agency to take stronger action on maintaining a higher quality of water, which is sorely needed.
“The reasons above are why, I am happy to support the Ham and Kingston Bathers application for Bathing Water Designation on the proposed section of the Thames.”