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Written question asked by Kevin Hollinrake (Conservative) on Thursday, 5 March 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 9 March 2026. It was answered by Emma Hardy (Labour) on Wednesday, 11 March 2026 on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.


Water Charges: Social Tariffs

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, pursuant to the Answer of 10 December 2025 to Question 96793 on water charges: social tariffs, what guidance Ofwat has given water companies on (a) whether tariffs from charging trials can be introduced without opt-in consent of the household and (b) whether households can opt-out of the trial.

Answer

Ofwat expects trials to follow its good practice principles, including strong customer engagement and safeguards.

Companies must also consult with the Consumer Council for Water in developing their trials to ensure that appropriate safeguards are in place so that vulnerable consumers are protected or excluded from the trials.


Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
118226
Session
2024-26
Related items
Water Charges: Social Tariffs
Wednesday, 10 December 2025
Written questions
House of Commons
Subjects
Pilot schemes Ofwat Social tariffs Water charges
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk