§ 18. Mr. BurdenTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what steps he is taking to monitor the installation of pre-payment water meters in council properties.
§ Mr. AtkinsA number of water companies are currently conducting trials of pre-payment water devices. The Director General of Water Services is monitoring the progress of these trials.
§ Mr. BurdenWill the Minister consider the case of Severn Trent Water, which installed some 700 prepayment devices? That has already led to about 400 disconnections. As the Water Act 1989 lays down clear guidelines under which water supplies can be disconnected, and as pre-payment devices do not appear to comply with those guidelines, does the Minister believe that water companies are acting lawfully or unlawfully?
§ Mr. AtkinsI am convinced that the companies are acting lawfully. If that were not the case, it would be a matter for the Director General of Water Services. Metering, which is largely the subject of the hon. Gentleman's question, is still being discussed throughout the length and breadth of the country and there remain differing views.