Whilst the Northumberland Labour Party welcome the apology and recognition of the catastrophe that has been allowed to happen with raw sewerage being pumped into the Country’s Rivers, Streams and Sea we cannot expect failures of such magnitude to be paid for by struggling families.

Northumberland’s Labour Leader said: “These private companies have made tens of millions for years, each and every year and therefore they must pay the price for failure themselves and not move costs to ordinary families.

“This Conservative lot have given the green light to this in recent months, to continue this dreadful practice and not force change, the companies themselves are now apologising but warning that any improvements will hit families’ pockets.

“This is outrageous, as we see families on the breadline paying for water and to see shareholders divide millions between them why should people be forced to pay for the clean up operation.

“The Conservatives blocked Labours recent bill to try and force change and it appears the companies themselves have decided to apologise and look to act based on the fact a Labour Government is heading their way. The Conservatives should hold their heads in shame and protect families from this greed.”

Across the North the foodbank usage is through the roof, evictions are high, unemployment is increasing not to mention utilities and basics costing a fortune. You cannot expect the consumer, made up of hard-working regular families to pay more to sort out this mess. Put some of the profits back in.

Northumberland Labour challenged recently about figures relating to sewerage pollution and were poo pooed, clearly now the cats out the bag and the problem needs dealt with.