Andy Burnham has called on the Prime Minister and Chancellor to nationalise Thames Water, arguing that the struggling utility company is beyond saving in its current form. The Greater Manchester mayor said the government must step in to protect customers and the environment from the company's failures.
Burnham's intervention
Speaking to the BBC, Burnham said: 'Thames Water is a complete mess. It's drowning in debt, polluting our rivers, and failing its customers. The only solution is to bring it into public ownership.' He urged the government to act swiftly, warning that delays could lead to further deterioration of services and environmental damage.
The company, which serves 15 million customers in London and the Thames Valley, has faced intense scrutiny over sewage discharges, rising bills, and a £14 billion debt pile. Ofwat, the regulator, has imposed fines but critics say stronger action is needed.
Government response
Downing Street has so far resisted calls for nationalisation, instead insisting that Thames Water must sort out its own problems. A spokesperson said: 'We are clear that the company's leadership must take responsibility for its performance. We are monitoring the situation closely.'
However, Burnham dismissed this as inadequate. 'The government cannot keep kicking the can down the road. Every day they wait, the problem gets worse. We need decisive action now.'
Political pressure mounts
The call adds to growing political pressure on the government over water company performance. Labour has previously pledged to bring water companies into public ownership if elected, but the current government remains opposed. Burnham's intervention is significant as he is a prominent Labour figure and a potential future party leader.
Environmental groups have also backed nationalisation. A spokesperson for River Action said: 'Thames Water has shown it cannot be trusted to clean up our rivers. Public ownership is the only way to ensure accountability and investment.'
What nationalisation would mean
Nationalising Thames Water would involve the government taking over its assets and operations, compensating shareholders. Supporters argue it would allow for greater investment in infrastructure without profit extraction, while critics warn of high costs to taxpayers and potential inefficiencies.
The company's financial troubles have been exacerbated by inflation and higher borrowing costs. In March, Thames Water secured a £3 billion emergency loan from its shareholders, but analysts say it may need further support. Credit rating agencies have downgraded its debt to junk status.
Burnham concluded: 'This is not about ideology. It's about common sense. The water company is failing, and the public is paying the price. The government must step in.'
