Ministers act to quell growing fury at state of Britain's rivers

MINISTERS today pledged to halve water pollution amid growing fury at Britain's filthy rivers and beaches.

- BY MIKEY SMITH Deputy Political Editor

Environment Secretary Steve Reed made the pledge ahead of a landmark report expected to demand sweeping changes to the industry.

He said: "Families have watched their local rivers, coastlines and lakes suffer from record levels of pollution.

"The government will halve sewage pollution from water companies by the end of the decade."

The cabinet minister added: "One of the largest infrastructure projects in England's history will clean up our rivers, lakes and seas for good."

Tomorrow, former top civil servant Sir Jon Cunliffe publishes his long-awaited report on how to improve the water industry's environmental and financial performance.

In response, the government is tipped to axe regulator Ofwat for failing to do its job of policing the water firms in England and Wales.

A study by the Consumer Council for Water found complaints are on the rise, with 53% of households saying they are being ripped off.