Member

It is not normal government practice to share a justice impact test publicly. However, I reassure the noble Lord that the impact of the Bill, and of Clause 4 specifically, on the justice system is expected to be minimal. The extension of the sentencing powers of the courts to include imprisonment for obstruction offences in the water industry is primarily designed to act as a deterrent. It is designed to disincentivise pollution incidents. We do not expect a significant number of people to be sentenced to imprisonment for these offences. The measures in the Bill that are designed to improve performance and culture within the water industry are expected to reduce the likelihood of offences being committed in the first place.