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<p>There is no specific compensation scheme for anglers. Enforcement action by Ofwat
can lead to settlements where water companies agree to return money to customers as
bill rebates. As a result of Ofwat’s action against Southern Water in 2019 and Thames
Water in 2018, the companies are returning £123 million and £120 million respectively
to customers over the next five years.</p><p> </p><p>The use of storm overflows is
strictly set out in Environment Agency permits who will not hesitate to use all options
for robust enforcement action against illegal breaches of these permits. This can
include unlimited fines via criminal prosecution by the Environment Agency for the
most serious offences. Since 2015, the EA has brought 54 prosecutions against water
companies, securing fines of almost £140 million.</p><p> </p><p>Victims of environmental
offending can apply to the court for compensation as part of proceedings brought by
the Environment Agency and this is generally the first matter the court will address
upon sentencing. Impacted parties can approach the Environment Agency and ask for
their compensation claim to be included in the proceedings. Compensation may then
be awarded by the Court on successful conviction.</p>
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