Reform goes to war with Labour over rivers crisis

REFORM UK has accused the Government of taking a “spineless” approach to the crisis facing the country’s rivers and coastline after Environment Secretary Steve Reed launched a blistering attack on Nigel Farage’s plan to part-nationalise water companies.

- By David Williamson

Mr Reed claimed Reform’s proposals would lead to “dirtier waterways and higher bills” and the “British public would be left to pick up the tab for his half-baked ideas”.

Reform’s manifesto pledged “50% of each utility” would be brought into public ownership.

Last month Mr Farage likened the plans to a “public private partnership” with the goal of bringing in “new people” and unlocking investment.

The Reform leader said the cost of securing the stake could be a “lot less” than the £50billion which has been suggested for 50% ownership.