The UK government said in a press release published on 29 September 2026 that a strengthened Water Bill would remove existing limits on government ownership of shares in the major water and sewerage companies in England, along with an associated restriction on acquiring shares. The statement said the limits vary between 1-3%, with the exact limit differing by company and below 3% in each case. The change was described as applying in England.

The Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs said the government intended to increase public control, citing cleaner water, fairer bills and stronger accountability. It said continued private sector investment remained important to the sector's long-term future and that the government would work with investors, regulators and companies. It added that more detail on its approach would come in a 10-year plan later that year, alongside new powers for local leaders.

Because the report predates this publication date, the bill changes and further plans should be read as proposals reported at that time, not confirmed outcomes.