Matthew Wright, the ex-CEO of Southern Water, appeared in court facing conspiracy to defraud charges. He and six former employees are accused of manipulating water quality tests from 2012 to 2017 to evade penalties, potentially avoiding fines exceeding £45 million. The case has been sent to Maidstone Crown Court for further proceedings.
Southern Water is also facing multiple charges for failing to comply with environmental permit conditions. Wright has denied any wrongdoing and has cooperated with the investigation by the Environment Agency.