§ MR. WEIRI beg to ask the President of the Local Government Board whether he is aware that the West Middlesex Water Company have quite recently raised their charges to consumers; and, seeing that a Bill for dealing with the London water supply is now before Parliament, will he state whether any other Metropolitan Water Companies have also raised their charges since the introduction of that Bill; and, if so, will he give their names.
§ THE PRESIDENT OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT BOARD (Mr. WALTER LONG,) Bristol, S.I am informed that from Christmas last the Company referred to have reduced the rebate which, since 1894, they have allowed on water charges from 10 per cent. to 5 per cent. The alteration is stated to have been rendered necessary owing to the payment which the Company have to make to the City Chamberlain under their Act of 1894, and to increased rates and charges for labour and materials. Notice of the alteration was sent to the local authorities in the district on 1st November, and an explanation is printed on all the application papers. I am not aware whether any other of the Metropolitan Water Companies have recently raised their charges.