British private water and wastewater utility
The Independent and Guardian report that Manchester mayor Andy Burnham is seen as frontrunner for prime minister after Makerfield by-election. Markets are awaiting clarity on fiscal policy and who will be chancellor as leadership race intensifies; economists warn not to underestimate risks to gilt markets and inflation.
Household bills across England are increasing significantly in 2026, with council tax up by nearly 5%, water bills rising by 5.4%, and broadband costs climbing. Energy prices are temporarily falling but face potential hikes due to geopolitical tensions. Many households are under financial pressure.
South East Water faces ongoing outages amid a heatwave, with thousands without water across Kent and Sussex. Regulators warn of pressure on resilience and investment plans, while councils pledge new scrutiny and partnerships to improve reliability. Pennon and Ofwat are central to the evolving response.
Emma Reynolds has written to regulator Ofwat, saying the creditors’ rescue bid for Thames Water is weak and could burden customers. The government favours a market-led solution but is watching for developments as Ofwat weighs options and Labour eyes potential nationalisation under a Burnham-led administration. Thames Water warns it has funds only until September while creditors seek to waive four years of penalties in exchange for a debt recapitalisation.