News

17th November 2021 marks a significant day for the Office of Environmental Protection (OEP) which has now been legally formed. This follows the passing of the Environment Act 2021 by Parliament last week. This is an important step towards the OEP becoming a fully operational and independent organisation, in the New Year, standing ready to hold government and public authorities to account.

The Environment Act 2021 has received Royal Assent, providing in law for the Office for Environmental Protection (OEP) to be created as an independent body. We expect the OEP to be legally formed in the coming days, and for the government and Parliament to take the steps needed for our functions to be made available to us early in the new year.

The Interim Office for Environmental Protection (OEP) has today (6 July) published its advice on Defra's draft environmental principles policy statement, following a request from Environment Minister Rebecca Pow.

Today (1 July) the Interim Office for Environmental Protection has commenced business, ahead of the OEP being formally established later this year once the Environment Bill becomes law.

Chair and Interim CEO of the Interim Office for Environmental Protection answer questions from MPs about the work of the interim body, and progress in establishing the OEP.