UK Environment Agency Refuses To Reveal Possible Conflicts Of Interest

"Agency rejected FOI request about potential conflicts of financial and business interests held by regional directors".

"The Environment Agency is refusing to provide campaigners with details of potential conflicts of interests with water companies held by its directors across England.

The refusal to provide the information comes after the head of the agency, Philip Duffy, admitted that freedom of information requests have been buried by the regulator because the truth about the environment in England is “embarrassing”.

Ash Smith, of Windrush against Sewage Pollution (Wasp), said the refusal to provide details of any potential conflicts of financial and business interests held by the regulator’s regional directors was inexcusable. He revealed that a freedom of information (FoI) request had been rejected by the EA on the grounds that there was no lawful basis on providing the information as it was not necessary to satisfy a legitimate interest."

Sandra Laville reports for the Guardian July 1, 2024.

Source: Guardian, 07/02/2024