My View: Taking Action on PFAS and Forever Chemicals

Thank you to everyone who contacted me about forever chemicals in our water. I know that per-and poly fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) represent one of the most pressing chemical challenges of our time. While I understand they have unique properties that bring significant benefits to society, their persistence and widespread presence in our environment pose risks we cannot ignore.

I agree it is an important issue for our Government to address. PFAS contamination threatens public health, wildlife, and the quality of our natural environment. We must act now to prevent irreversible harm and to ensure our regulatory frameworks keep pace with scientific evidence.

I welcome our Government’s PFAS Plan which was published back in February 2026. It sets out a vision to reduce and minimise the harmful effects of PFAS while transitioning to safer alternatives. It has three sections to understand the source of PFAS, tackling how they move through the environment, and reducing ongoing exposure to them. I support its commitment to protect public health and the environment while supporting innovation and economic growth.

I am also pleased that the Plan undertakes an approach rooted in in science and collaboration. It is through coordinated action that we can tackle this long-term challenge and ensure we pass on an environment better than the one we inherited to the next generations. I look forward to collaborative work to protect our environment, safeguard public health and build a cleaner, safer future.

I know that many are worried about drinking water. I hope I can assure you that the quality of public drinking water in England is exceptionally high and among the best in the world. In the last few years, compliance rates were at 99.97%. Please be assured that I will continue to support action to tackle PFAS contamination of our environment and human health, and ensure that our water standards are high.