An MP has criticised a missed chance to prevent customers from paying for water company failures.

Liz Jarvis, Liberal Democrat MP for Eastleigh, proposed an amendment to the Water (Special Measures) Bill, aimed at protecting consumers from bailing out bankrupt water companies.

However, the amendment was rejected by Labour and Conservative MPs in a House of Commons vote this week.

Ms Jarvis said: "We urgently need a fair deal that prioritises customers in Eastleigh above Southern Water.

"For too long they have been able to get away with financial mismanagement and a poor level of service knowing hard-working people will be expected to pick up the tab."

The Liberal Democrats have highlighted that, on average, a third of water bills are spent on debt.

They have pledged to continue campaigning for a fair deal for consumers.

Southern Water customers are facing a 53 per cent increase in their bills by 2029-30, equating to an additional £221.

Ms Jarvis added: "I’m proud that the Liberal Democrats are taking the Government to task on the issue, and I hope the Government changes course and puts customers first.

"I am determined that this new piece of legislation be strong enough to deliver the urgent reforms that the water sector needs."

The Liberal Democrats have managed to secure a concession on one amendment, which will introduce a single social tariff for vulnerable customers.

Currently, the financial support each water company offers vulnerable customers differs, creating a postcode lottery of water bill support.