The number of criminal investigations into illegal sewage spills has more than doubled since last July, following a 400% surge in spot checks.

The government’s investigating a “record” of 81 cases related to waste pollution by water firms.

Last month ministers announced company executives could be jailed for covering up spills.

Here’s environment secretary and MP for Streatham and Croydon North Steve Reed.

BA: Water UK says it’s “right that companies are investigated and held to account”.