Thames Water should be nationalised, says Andy Burnham

Thames Water should be nationalised, Andy Burnham has said, revealing public ownership of water companies would “absolutely be an option” under his potential leadership of the Labour party. Burnham, Labour’s candidate in the Makerfield byelection , has previously called for “greater public control” over the companies. In an interview with the Guardian, he has confirmed this could mean nationalisation. “Public ownership is absolutely an option,” he said. “I would say for Thames Water , that is what should be done.” The Manchester mayor has been sharpening up his offer to the country in preparation for a leadership election, should he win on the 18 June. The Guardian understands he has met water campaigners including the former Undertones frontman, Feargal Sharkey, who is an outspoken advocate for nationalisation of water. Privatised water companies in England have presided over widespread pollution of the rivers and seas, while failing to invest in infrastructure that has contributed to recent water shortages. Many of the companies have been loaded with debt, while shareholders have been paid billions in dividends. In Scotland, water is nationalised, and in Wales their sole water company is a not-for-profit company. The Guardian understands that Burnham has met water campaigners including the former Undertones frontman, Feargal Sharkey. Photograph: Krisztián Elek/Sopa Images/Shutterstock Thames Water is England’s largest, serving about a quarter of the population. …