Water pollution: Strip Wales’ watchdog of powers – Lib Dems

A lack of resources to carry out enforcement action was a “big issue”, said Sir Ed.

The Welsh government said, while issues around the environment were its responsibility, it was working with Westminster to “consider how regulation of the water sector can be strengthened”.

It added: “NRW is critically reviewing its entire range of activities recognising that delivery of its core functions and statutory duties take priority.”

Sir Ed praised the structure of Welsh Water, which supplies most of Wales and parts of England, which is a not-for-profit organisation.

He said it had the potential “to be a much better model than the privatised water industry we’ve seen in England”.