The boss of Britain’s biggest water company has issued a firm rebuke to Jeremy Corbyn over his “behind the times” and “disturbing” plans to renationalise utilities.

Steve Robertson, chief executive of Thames Water, told The Sunday Telegraph that Labour’s policies threaten investment in infrastructure upgrades and customer interests. Meanwhile the chairman of BT’s network subsidiary Openreach branded Mr Corbyn’s plans for company dividends “drivel”.

Mr Robertson defended Thames Water against criticism of its record on leaks and payouts to investors, and said: “I have no interest in appeasing any political uprising. My focus is entirely on delivering billions in investment and good service for customers.”