Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, with reference to page 17 of the Water White Paper of January 2026, whether the integrated water regulator will have the same budget as the Environment Agency, Natural England, Ofwat and Drinking Water Inspectorate elements.

We are considering the detail of the funding arrangements that will be needed. In doing so, we will ensure that the new regulator will have the funds to deliver its responsibilities in full, balancing the interests of customers, investors and the environment