§ 51. Mr. J. E. B. Hillasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government why, following the setting up of the South Norfolk Water Board by his order of 15th January, 1969, varying increases of up to 300 per cent. in the price of water to domestic and commercial users have been proposed; and whether he will refer such increases to the National Board for Prices and Incomes.
§ Mr. K. RobinsonIncreases in particular charges vary considerably because burdens have been redistributed between areas and between classes of consumer. Over all, the majority of undertakings comprising the new board have been 229W operating at a loss, expenses have risen, and local authorities in the area have stopped subsidising the water rate from the general rate. I shall be writing to the hon. Member shortly about the related matters he has raised in correspondence but I have no evidence which would justify a reference to the National Board for Prices and Incomes.