§ Mr. WilsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what instructions he has given to local authorities, concerning features to be incorporated in provision of new domestic water supplies, with a view to future adaptation for metering.
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§ Sir Hector MonroNo requirements have been placed on local authorities in Scotland concerning the future adaptation of new domestic water supplies for metering. Metering is a voluntary option we made available to householders from 1 April this year. The technical adaptations necessary are matters for discussion between regional or island councils as water authorities and the individual consumer.
In May my Department issued a circular to water authorities drawing their attention to the new optional provision (in the Local Government Finance Act 1992) and highlighting certain matters such as meter siting and payment terms that they might wish to take into account when meeting a consumer's request for a meter. I am arranging for a copy of the circular (SOEnD 10/93) to be placed in the Library.