The prospect of Andy Burnham becoming prime minister has reignited the debate over public control of essential services, particularly water and energy. With a focus on the water industry, the article explores the potential for nationalisation, the challenges it presents, and the implications for companies like Thames Water. The author delves into the arguments for and against public ownership, highlighting the complexities of the decision-making process. The article also touches on the energy sector, where the call for renationalisation is a familiar echo in Labour policy. The author discusses the need for a nuanced approach, balancing the benefits of public control with the financial and operational realities of the industry. The article concludes by emphasising the importance of a step change in infrastructure investment, recognising that someone will have to pay for the necessary improvements.
