Written question asked by John Stanley (Conservative), in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Friday, 21 March 1997. It was answered by Robert B Jones (Conservative) on Friday, 21 March 1997 on behalf of the Department of the Environment.

Dept of the Environment

Question: What has been the increase or decrease in real terms since privatisation in water charges. - Inc figs.

Answer: Sir John Stanley: To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what has been the increase or decrease in real terms since privatisation in water charges. [21493] Mr. Robert B. Jones: Between 1989-90, the year of privatisation, and 1996-97, average domestic water and sewerage charges in England and Wales increased by 35 per cent. in real terms. Since privatisation, the water industry has invested over £18 billion and in 1994 the Director General of Water Services allowed for investment of £24 billion over the 10-year period to 2005.

Secondary information