The article discusses the negative consequences of water privatization in England and Wales, highlighting issues such as rising pollution incidents, increasing debts, and escalating bills for consumers. Graham Hiscott, the Mirror Business Editor, argues that the privatisation is a failure for the general public, while a select few companies benefit significantly from the system. The original intent of privatization, as envisioned by former Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, has not translated to the overall well-being of the population or the environment.

The piece underscores that England and Wales remain nearly unique in having their entire water industry fully privatized, contrasting it with other countries that recognize the importance of maintaining public ownership of essential resources like water. The author advocates for a shift away from the profit-driven model, which he claims has led to the degradation of waterways that were once clean and vibrant. Hiscott’s analysis suggests that the current system has prioritized profit margins over ecological and societal health, resulting in waterways that are now perceived as lifeless.

In conclusion, the article calls for urgent reconsideration of the water privatization framework, positing that the failures of the industry reflect broader concerns about the management of public resources. The author emphasizes the need to protect water as a vital asset of life, advocating for a system that prioritizes sustainability and community welfare over corporate profits.