Water companies to be forced to cut raw sewage being pumped in the rivers in compromise to avoid Tory rebellion

WATER companies will be forced to cut the raw sewage they pump into rivers — to avoid a Tory rebellion.

The move came as ministers frantically tried to persuade MPs and peers not to vote down Boris Johnson’s flagship Environment Bill.

Environment Secretary George Eustice was forced to make concessions just days before the PM hosts his COP26 climate summit.

He announced last night the reduction of sewage would be “put on a statutory footing”.

But the measure may still not go far enough as it will force water companies only to reduce the waste they pump out over the next five years.

Our Victorian sewerage system cannot cope unless overflow water is released in heavy rain.

But campaigners wanted ministers to put a stop to the practice to protect our waterways.

Under Mr Eustice’s compromise, water companies will be obliged to come up with a plan by next September.

The PM’s spokesperson insisted: “We have a tough package of measure.”

Tory MP Philip Dunne, who had threatened to back the revolt, said he was pleased at the Government climbdown.

But Labour Shadow Environment Secretary Luke Pollard warned: “This screeching U-turn will do little to convince the public. There is still no clear plan.”