Written question asked by Martin Redmond (Labour), in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 16 January 1996. It was answered by James Clappison (Conservative) on Tuesday, 16 January 1996 on behalf of the Department of the Environment.

Dept of the Environment

Question: If he will instruct all water companies to stop further implementation of metering water supplies to individual residences, unless specifically asked to by the occupier.

Answer: Mr. Redmond: To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will instruct all water companies to stop further implementation of metering water supplies to individual residences, unless specifically asked to by the occupier; and if he will make a statement. [9116] Mr. Clappison: Neither the Director General of Water Services, Mr. Ian Byatt, nor Ministers have powers to prescribe charging methods or types of tariff. Within the terms of the legislation, it is up to each company to decide which method of charging is most appropriate and cost-effective in its area, subject to the Director General of Water Services being satisfied that the chosen method and the associated tariffs do not give undue preference to, or unduly discriminate against, any group or class of customers.

Secondary information