§ Mr. Sydney Chapmanasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what has been the effect of recent legislation on charges for water power generation; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Eldon GriffithsThe Water Act 1973 will give the new water authorities, from 1st April 1974, wide powers to determine the basis of charges for the use of water. A steering group has been set up by my right hon. and learned Friend to study the economic and financial policies of the authorities. The group expects to report next year on charging policy, and its report will be published. After its recommendations have been discussed with the National Water Council in the light of any representations by interested bodies, it is intended that advice should be given to the water authorities with a view to securing the application of consistent principles throughout the country.