HC Deb 17 March 1997 vol 292 cc447-8W
Mrs. Helen Jackson

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what percentage of the cost of the free installation of water meters was paid for by(a) increased domestic customer charges and (b) shareholders in 1996. [20091]

Mr. Clappison

This is a matter for the Director General of Water Services who informs me that in setting price limits at the 1994 periodic review he allowed for the costs of metering to be met by metered customers, other than the costs of excavation for meter boxes. This did not have a significant effect on price limits. Price limits have not been increased to allow for the subsequent introduction by some companies of a free meter space and these costs are therefore met by the shareholders, at least until new price limits are set.

Mrs. Jackson

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what consultation the Office of Water Supply has held with non-metered householders about the costs to them of free meter installation. [20093]

Mr. Clappison

Since price limits were set by the Director General of Water Services in 1994, he informs me that there have been no costs to unmeasured household customers associated with companies' subsequent introduction of free meter installation. The director has not therefore specifically consulted about this. Ofwat liaises on a day to day basis with its 10 customer service committees about matters affecting customers.

Mrs. Jackson

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment how much was spent by water companies in 1996 on(a) the installation of and (b) the administrative costs of household metering. [20092]

Mr. Clappison

This is a matter for the Director General of Water Services, who informs me that this information is not available in the form requested.