§ Dan NorrisTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what assessment he has made of the likely impact on domestic and business water users from 2000 to 2005 of the periodic review of water prices to set prices for that period. [91163]
§ Mr. MealeUnder the Water Industry Act 1991, the regulation of water and sewerage undertakers' price limits is for the Director General of Water Services. In setting price limits, the Director General is also under a duty to192W ensure that the interests of customers are protected, and he will therefore have regard to the impact of the periodic review on customers.
We believe that reductions in average water and sewerage bills can be secured. The Director General expects to announce draft price limits for each undertaker later this month.
§ Dan NorrisTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what guidance he has given to the Director General of Ofwat concerning the periodic review of water prices to set prices for the period from April 2000 to 2005. [91162]
§ Mr. MealeUnder the Water Industry Act 1991 the regulation of water and sewerage undertakers' price limits is for the Director General of Water Services. The Government have given guidance to the Director General on the environmental and water quality improvements to be delivered by 2005. This guidance was published under the title "Raising the Quality" in September 1998, and was supported by more detailed announcements of company programmes on 1 March 1999.