Defra has overall responsibility for setting the policy and regulatory framework for water in England.82 Defra told us there is “too piecemeal a picture” of regulation currently, with overlaps and gaps in responsibilities.83 71 Qq 34, 110 72 C&AG’s Report, para 3.32 73 Q 3 74 C&AG’s Report, para 3.6 75 Qq 100, 110 76 C&AG’s Report, paras 3.23, 3.35 77 Qq 10-11 78 Q 109 79 Q 32 80 C&AG’s Report, para 3.28 81 Q 109 82 C&AG’s Report, para 2.2 83 Q 84 17 We asked Defra and the regulators about tw...

Defra has overall responsibility for setting the policy and regulatory framework for water in England.82 Defra told us there is “too piecemeal a picture” of regulation currently, with overlaps and gaps in responsibilities.83 71 Qq 34, 110 72 C&AG’s Report, para 3.32 73 Q 3 74 C&AG’s Report, para 3.6 75 Qq 100, 110 76 C&AG’s Report, paras 3.23, 3.35 77 Qq 10-11 78 Q 109 79 Q 32 80 C&AG’s Report, para 3.28 81 Q 109 82 C&AG’s Report, para 2.2 83 Q 84 17 We asked Defra and the regulators about two key areas of regulation: the net zero impact of the sector, and the security of the network. On net zero, the EA told us it does not comprehensively as Type: conclusion | Number: 25 | Response status: not_addressed Government response: The Government recognises the need for a joined-up approach to water management and is committed to delivering a regulatory framework that is fit for purpose. The Water Reform Committee, which reported in March 2024, made a number of recommendations in relation t