§ Mr. Stephen Rossasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if, in view of the effect that the introduction of metered sewerage charges will have on hoteliers and other commercial ratepayers involved with the holiday industry, he will have discussions about the level of such charges with the water authorities.
Mr. ShawUnder section 30 of the Water Act 1973 water authorities are responsible for fixing tariffs for the water services which they provide.
I understand that in response to representations which have been made to it the Southern water authority is considering the possibility of phasing-in their new metered sewerage charge in order to avoid sharp shifts in the incidence of charge.