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Efforts to Address Sewage Pollution in Water Reform

A significant review has recommended a thorough reform of the regulatory framework governing water companies in both England and Wales.

The Welsh government has unveiled a comprehensive overhaul of the nation's water system, featuring the establishment of a new regulator, a nationwide plan to upgrade pipes and sewers, and stricter controls on the use of sewage sludge as fertilizer.

Water flows from a black tap in a kitchen with a window in the background, which is blurred. — The Welsh government has responded to a major water industry review

According to ministers, these sweeping reforms will pave the way for improved water quality, more effective regulation, and increased accountability, marking a significant shift in the country's approach to water management.

Implementing these changes will be a long-term process, requiring the Senedd to be granted new powers and substantial funding, which cannot be covered solely by customer bills, indicating a need for alternative funding sources.

Afonydd Cymru, a representative body for river trusts in Wales, has expressed cautious optimism about the proposals, describing them as a "beacon of hope" while urging the government to expedite the implementation process.

Deputy First Minister Huw Irranca-Davies announced the plans at a press conference held at Lisvane and Llanishen reservoirs, emphasizing the need for a "fundamental reset" in the country's approach to water management.

He cited the pressing issues of climate change, nature emergencies, aging infrastructure, and public concerns over water quality as driving the need for decisive action to address these challenges.

The reforms come on the heels of a major review, commissioned in response to growing public dissatisfaction with the performance of water companies, which called for a complete overhaul of industry oversight in Wales and England.

In January, the UK government outlined its response, including the creation of a new water watchdog for England that would conduct unannounced inspections and regular checks on infrastructure, setting a precedent for similar reforms in Wales.

Huw stands on a podium with a body of water behind him. His mouth is open with a word and he is holding a paper in both hands He has a dark suit jacket and light blue shirt. He as short grey hair — Deputy First Minister Huw Irranca-Davies announced the new plans at a water reservoir in Cardiff

As control over water is largely devolved to Cardiff Bay, the Welsh government has developed its own set of plans, including the establishment of a standalone regulatory body to replace Ofwat in Wales.

This new body would serve as the "economic regulator and system planner" for water in Wales, supporting long-term investment in infrastructure and overseeing a national planning effort to upgrade the country's aging pipes and sewers.

By taking on this national planning role, the government aims to create a more integrated and responsive approach to water management, addressing the complex challenges facing the sector.

The proposed reforms would deliver a more cohesive and effective system, according to the government, with the new regulator working in tandem with existing bodies to achieve this goal.

However, environmental regulation and pollution oversight would remain the responsibility of Natural Resources Wales (NRW), differing from the approach proposed for England, where a single, unified watchdog is envisioned.

Before the new organization can be established, the Welsh government must secure new powers from the UK government and pass legislation in the Senedd, a process that will require careful coordination and planning.

The new regulator is not expected to be operational until the early 2030s, highlighting the long-term nature of these reforms and the need for patience and persistence.

In the interim, the government plans to develop a new national water strategy for Wales, spanning the next 25 years, to replace the existing document published in 2015 and provide a roadmap for future development.

The ability of water companies to self-monitor and report their performance will be reviewed, acknowledging concerns about the reliability of these systems and the need for more robust oversight.

To address these concerns, the government may introduce additional measures, such as increased automation and inspections, to provide greater assurance and transparency.

Stricter controls on the spreading of sewage and septic tank sludge as fertilizer, as well as limits on the use of digestate from anaerobic digestion plants, are also proposed, aiming to mitigate the environmental impacts of these practices.

Afonydd Cymru has expressed particular enthusiasm for these proposals, citing the inappropriate spreading of sewage sludge as a major contributor to high nutrient levels in Welsh rivers and a cause of catastrophic incidents.

Chief executive Gail Davies-Walsh has welcomed the government's proposals, seeing them as an opportunity for significant positive change, while emphasizing the need for swift action to capitalize on this momentum.

However, she cautioned that the consultation process is only the first step, and the government must move quickly to turn these plans into reality, as the current situation demands urgent attention.

Outflow of water from a sewage sluice at Flint Dock. Brown water runs out of a waterway, with grass-covered banks on either side of the sluice walls. — The Welsh government says its reforms will help deliver cleaner rivers

The issue of funding remains unresolved, with Davies-Walsh noting that the required investment will exceed what can be raised through customer bills, necessitating alternative funding sources.

Wales' Future Generations Commissioner Derek Walker has characterized the announcement as a "wake-up call" for the water industry, emphasizing the need for a seamless transition to the new regulatory body.

He stressed that everything must be done to ensure the transition occurs without delay, prioritizing long-term environmental recovery, affordability, and strengthened compliance and regulation.

Chris Walters, Ofwat's interim CEO, has pledged the organization's support for the development of the new regulatory body, while reaffirming its commitment to delivering core functions in the meantime.

A public consultation on the government's proposals is ongoing, with the deadline for submissions set for early April, providing an opportunity for stakeholders to contribute to the shaping of these reforms.

Plaid Cymru's spokesperson on Climate Change, Delyth Jewell MS, has expressed support for the creation of a Wales-specific regulatory body, seeing it as essential for holding water companies accountable and ensuring better value for customers.

Gail Davies-Walsh looks at the camera as she stands in front of a green bank and water body. she is wearing a burgundy windbreaker coat, open in the front revealing a purple v neck blouse. she has rectangular glasses and ear length curly dark hair — Afonydd Cymru's Gail Davies-Walsh

She emphasized the need for transformative change, including the full devolution of powers over water, to create a water system that truly serves the people of Wales, prioritizing their needs above corporate interests.

Welsh Conservative Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Climate Change and the Environment, Janet Finch-Saunders MS, has expressed skepticism about the potential impact of a new regulator, arguing that it will not automatically lead to cleaner rivers or address underlying issues.

She pointed out that a new regulator will not prevent sewage spills, fix broken infrastructure, or halt rising water bills, highlighting the need for more comprehensive solutions.

Reform UK Wales has stated that the success of these reforms will be judged on their results, emphasizing the need for tangible improvements in the lives of people in Wales.

The party has called for efforts to stabilize prices and support Welsh Water in upgrading the network, recognizing the importance of affordable and reliable water services.

Leader of the Welsh Liberal Democrats, Jane Dodds MS, has welcomed the allocation of £5m in funding to strengthen enforcement and regulation, secured through a budget deal, but cautioned that this investment is only a first step.

She emphasized the importance of using this funding effectively, as it will not be sufficient on its own to address the complex challenges facing the water sector.

The Green Party has expressed support for the plans, acknowledging the need for a Wales-specific regulator and full control over the country's water resources, seeing these reforms as a crucial step towards a more sustainable and equitable water management system.

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Aberdeen to unveil new manager soon with Docherty set to take assistant role

Aberdeen has bolstered its interim management team with the return of Tony Docherty, who previously served as an assistant manager, to support Peter Leven, amid anticipation of a permanent appointment announcement that sporting director Lutz Pfannenstiel had indicated would be made “imminently”.

Ross County parted ways with Tony Docherty in December, and he has now taken on a new role.

Aberdeen have brought in former assistant manager Tony Docherty to support Peter Leven's interim management team, despite sporting director Lutz Pfannenstiel indicating that a permanent appointment was imminent.

Docherty's return to Aberdeen comes just a week after Eirik Horneland, a former coach of Rosenborg, Brann, and Saint-Etienne, emerged as a top contender to succeed Jimmy Thelin, who was sacked earlier.

As Aberdeen delays making a full-time appointment, speculation surrounding Eirik Horneland's availability has arisen, with reports suggesting the 50-year-old Norwegian may not be able to take on the role until summer.

Since Jimmy Thelin's dismissal on January 4, Lutz Pfannenstiel has been leading the search for a replacement, and he confirmed that Tony Docherty would be joining the team to assist Peter Leven during the interim period.

Dundee Utd are facing a challenging schedule, with four matches in 14 days set to take place on a weather-affected pitch.

According to Stavrum, Eirik Horneland's coaching style, characterized by intensity, would be a good fit for Aberdeen.

Tony Docherty initially joined Aberdeen in 2013 as part of Derek McInnes' management team and spent eight years at the club.

Before his stint at Aberdeen, Docherty served as McInnes' assistant at Kilmarnock and later managed Dundee and Ross County, but his time at Ross County ended in December when he was let go with the team at the bottom of the Championship.

Lutz Pfannenstiel praised Tony Docherty's experience, stating that he has a deep understanding of the club and will be a valuable asset during the transition period.

Pfannenstiel highlighted Docherty's extensive knowledge of the Scottish Premiership, gained through his experience as both a coach and manager, which will be beneficial to the team in the short term.

The club's managerial search is nearing its conclusion, and an announcement regarding the new head coach is expected soon, according to Pfannenstiel.

Peter Leven, who is serving as caretaker manager for the third time, expressed his enthusiasm for Tony Docherty's appointment.

Leven welcomed Docherty's return, stating that his experience will be a significant boost to the team, particularly during the upcoming matches.

Leven noted that Docherty was eager to join the team and that his presence will provide valuable support during both training sessions and matches.

Eirik Horneland left his position at Saint-Etienne in early February, at which point his team was fourth in France's second tier.

If Aberdeen decides to wait until summer for Horneland to take over, it will be similar to the six-month delay that occurred when Jimmy Thelin joined the club from Elfsborg in the summer of 2024.

For the latest news, analysis, and fan perspectives on Aberdeen, visit our dedicated page.

News

Peter Murrell faces allegations of misusing £459,000 in funds over 12 years

Allegations have been made that he bought various items, such as luxury goods, jewellery, cosmetics, two cars and a motorhome, in an improper manner.

Peter Murrell, the former chief executive of the Scottish National Party, is facing allegations of embezzling £459,000 from the party over a 12-year period.

Peter Murrell looking off to his right while sitting in a room. He is wearing a black suit, white shirt and dark coloured tie. — Peter Murrell is due to appear in court next Friday for a preliminary hearing

An indictment document obtained by BBC News outlines the case against Murrell, who is the estranged husband of former Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon.

The alleged embezzlement is said to have occurred between August 2010 and January 2023, according to the indictment.

It is claimed that Murrell used party funds to purchase luxury items, including jewellery, cosmetics, and vehicles, such as two cars and a motorhome.

The Scottish Sun was the first to report on the details of the indictment.

A preliminary hearing in the case is scheduled to take place at the High Court in Glasgow on Friday, 20 February, where Murrell is expected to appear.

During his initial court appearance at Edinburgh Sheriff Court, Murrell made no plea and was subsequently granted bail.

Murrell's arrest in 2023 was part of Operation Branchform, a police investigation into the SNP's funding and finances, which led to him being charged with embezzlement in April 2024.

A police van and a police officer outside Murrell's home in April 2023. — Murrell was arrested in 2023 as part of a probe into the SNP's finances

Although Sturgeon was questioned by police as part of the investigation, she is no longer considered a suspect.

BBC News has obtained a copy of the indictment against Murrell ahead of his upcoming court appearance.

It is worth noting that the indictment is subject to change until the case is heard in court and may be amended throughout the judicial process.

The indictment alleges that Murrell purchased a £124,550 motorhome for personal use and created false documents to justify the expense as a legitimate party expenditure.

Murrell is also accused of using £57,500 of party funds to buy a Jaguar I-PACE car in 2019, and falsifying an invoice to conceal the true nature of the purchase.

Furthermore, it is alleged that when the Jaguar was sold in 2021, Murrell deposited more than £47,000 into his personal bank account.

The indictment also claims that Murrell embezzled £16,489 from the SNP to partially fund the purchase of a Volkswagen Golf in 2016.

A list of over 80 retailers is included in the indictment, where Murrell allegedly made purchases totalling more than £159,000 between 2014 and 2022, using party credit or charge cards for personal expenses.

The retailers named in the indictment include Harrods, the Royal Mint, John Lewis, Homebase, and Argos, among others.

It is alleged that Murrell used SNP credit or charge cards to make these purchases and then inserted false or inaccurate accounting codes and descriptions into the party's accounting systems.

The indictment also accuses Murrell of making purchases worth over £81,600 through Amazon using the same method.

Murrell served as the SNP's chief executive for 22 years before his departure.

Murrell and Sturgeon were married in 2010, but announced their separation in January 2025, after being together for many years.

News

Bangladesh Nationalist Party Wins Landslide in Country’s First Poll Since Youth-Led Protests

The public is looking forward to a shift back to democratic governance, following a 15-year period of authoritarian leadership by Sheikh Hasina.

In a significant shift in the country's political landscape, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has achieved a decisive majority in parliament, 18 months after widespread protests led to the ousting of Sheikh Hasina, the country's longest-serving prime minister.

Supporters of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) show a victory sign in front of a banner with Tarique Rahman’s photo, as the results project BNP's victory in the 13th general election, in Dhaka, Bangladesh, February 13, 2026. REUTERS/Mohammad Ponir Hossain — Tarique Rahman has been out of the country for 17 years. He has promised democracy will be restored

The BNP secured over two-thirds of the seats in the recent general election, with the Jamaat party, the main Islamist party in the country, coming in second; meanwhile, the Awami League, led by Hasina, was not allowed to participate in the election.

As the BNP's leader, Tarique Rahman is poised to become the next prime minister, facing significant challenges in revitalizing the economy and restoring democratic principles after 15 years of authoritarian rule under Hasina's leadership.

In a concurrent referendum, voters also expressed support for comprehensive democratic reforms, which are expected to shape the country's future.

Following Friday prayers in Dhaka, Tarique Rahman expressed gratitude to his supporters, stating, "I am grateful for the love you have shown me"; his party has chosen not to hold a victory procession.

Rahman, who was elected to parliament for the first time, was among the 212 successful BNP candidates; according to the Election Commission, voter turnout was 59.44%.

This marks a significant turnaround for Rahman, who spent 17 years in self-imposed exile in London before taking over as party leader after his mother, former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, passed away in December.

During his campaign, Rahman pledged to restore democratic principles and practices in the country.

The new government will need to address pressing issues, including economic revitalization, controlling rising food prices, and creating employment opportunities for the country's large youth population.

Rebuilding relations with neighboring India is also a key priority for the incoming government.

In the aftermath of his victory, Rahman received a congratulatory call from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who acknowledged his "remarkable victory".

Modi took to social media to reaffirm India's commitment to promoting peace, progress, and prosperity in both countries, citing their deep historical and cultural ties.

Although the BNP has pledged to bring about change, the party has faced criticism in the past for corruption and alleged human rights abuses during its previous tenure in government in the early 2000s.

The recent election represents a pivotal moment for the country, with one of the two main parties achieving a significant victory, presenting both opportunities and risks.

Proposed constitutional reforms include introducing term limits for the prime minister, establishing a directly elected upper house of parliament, strengthening presidential powers, and increasing judicial independence.

The reforms also aim to increase female representation in parliament, an area where significant progress is still needed, as evidenced by the limited number of successful female candidates in the recent election.

As the newly elected leader, Tarique Rahman will face intense scrutiny as he works to deliver on his promises to a predominantly young electorate eager for change, many of whom participated in the student-led protests that ultimately led to Hasina's removal and paved the way for the February 12 election.