§ Sir John StanleyTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what has been the increase or decrease in real terms since privatisation in water charges. [21493]
§ Mr. Robert B. JonesBetween 1989–90, the year of privatisation, and 1996–97, average domestic water and sewerage charges in England and Wales increased by 35 per cent. in real terms. Since privatisation, the water 925W industry has invested over £18 billion and in 1994 the Director General of Water Services allowed for investment of £24 billion over the 10-year period to 2005.