Ofwat should have to approve water firms’ bonuses and dividends, say MPs

MPs are calling for stricter oversight of water companies, arguing that billpayers' money is being misused to fund executive bonuses and shareholder payouts—like Thames Water, which reportedly paid bonuses from a £3bn loan. They want Ofwat, the water regulator, to approve these payments before they’re handed out. Some are even pushing to scrap the profit-driven model entirely, suggesting England follow Wales’ lead and run water utilities as non-profits.