The author, Jenny Jones, a Green Party peer, takes a stand against Thames Water's pollution of Britain's rivers and coastlines. She argues that the water company is not fulfilling its duties and is profiting from pollution, while also failing to address leaks and sewage issues. Jones believes that the government should nationalize the water companies, as public opinion strongly favors renationalization. However, she acknowledges that the government uses a fictitious cost of £100 billion to justify not taking action, which includes the companies' debt. Jones also suggests that the water companies' bosses should be held accountable for their failures, possibly through community service or other penalties, rather than just financial penalties. She expresses frustration with the lack of change despite the Labour government's presence and the increasing water bills. Jones' personal decision to stop paying the sewage element of her Thames Water bill is a form of protest, and she hopes to win this battle, despite the potential legal consequences. Her actions demonstrate a commitment to environmental protection and a desire to hold corporations accountable for their environmental impact.
