Remove Sir James Bevan's knighthood
The Issue
I am compelled to write this petition out of complete disgust and outrage at the sewage scandal and the ensuing cover-up by the Environment Agency – the very institution that is supposed to protect our environment. The recent docudrama 'Dirty Business' has shone a stark light on unethical practices and profound negligence. It is appalling that someone entrusted with such responsibility, like Sir James Bevan from the Environment Agency, continues to hold the esteemed title of knighthood despite the controversies that have come to light.
Sir James Bevan has been portrayed in the docudrama as a key figure in ignoring the detrimental environmental impact of sewage discharge into our rivers and possibly covering up such actions. Research and media reports, including those from WASP, highlight that thousands of sewage spills occur every year, causing extensive damage to our aquatic ecosystems and posing continuing severe health risks to communities.
Knighthood is a distinction that should symbolize integrity, honor, and a dedication to serving the public and the nation selflessly. The values associated with this honor demand nothing but the highest standards of conduct, transparency, and accountability from its bearers. It is evident from the documentary that Sir James Bevan does not embody these values.
Revoking the knighthood from Sir James would send a powerful message that the misuse of power and responsibility cannot be tolerated. This action would restore the public's faith in our honors system and reinforce the laudable aims of environmental accountability and justice. The honor system must act decisively to uphold the values it represents.
Therefore, I urgently call upon the British honors committee, the UK government, and relevant authorities to take immediate action in initiating proceedings to remove Sir James Bevan’s knighthood.
Please join me in signing this petition to demand accountability and restore the integrity of our national honors system by removing Sir James Bevan's knighthood.

9,815
The Issue
I am compelled to write this petition out of complete disgust and outrage at the sewage scandal and the ensuing cover-up by the Environment Agency – the very institution that is supposed to protect our environment. The recent docudrama 'Dirty Business' has shone a stark light on unethical practices and profound negligence. It is appalling that someone entrusted with such responsibility, like Sir James Bevan from the Environment Agency, continues to hold the esteemed title of knighthood despite the controversies that have come to light.
Sir James Bevan has been portrayed in the docudrama as a key figure in ignoring the detrimental environmental impact of sewage discharge into our rivers and possibly covering up such actions. Research and media reports, including those from WASP, highlight that thousands of sewage spills occur every year, causing extensive damage to our aquatic ecosystems and posing continuing severe health risks to communities.
Knighthood is a distinction that should symbolize integrity, honor, and a dedication to serving the public and the nation selflessly. The values associated with this honor demand nothing but the highest standards of conduct, transparency, and accountability from its bearers. It is evident from the documentary that Sir James Bevan does not embody these values.
Revoking the knighthood from Sir James would send a powerful message that the misuse of power and responsibility cannot be tolerated. This action would restore the public's faith in our honors system and reinforce the laudable aims of environmental accountability and justice. The honor system must act decisively to uphold the values it represents.
Therefore, I urgently call upon the British honors committee, the UK government, and relevant authorities to take immediate action in initiating proceedings to remove Sir James Bevan’s knighthood.
Please join me in signing this petition to demand accountability and restore the integrity of our national honors system by removing Sir James Bevan's knighthood.

9,815
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Petition created on 25 February 2026
