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

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what steps she is taking to reduce levels of trifluoroacetic acid in groundwater and rivers in North East Hertfordshire.

The Drinking Water Inspectorate (DWI) is carrying out a research project on concentrations of trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) in water supplies in England and Wales and will seek advice from UKHSA where a risk of occurrence to water supplies is identified to understand potential risk to health, including reproductive health and fertility.

In February 2026, the Government unveiled a plan to better protect the nation and environment from PFAS, including TFA. The Environment Agency is working with water companies to reduce TFA and protect drinking water quality. The Government's priority is ensuring that all companies, regardless of ownership model, deliver better environmental performance and service for customers.