§ Mr. Higginsasked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether water authorities have powers to charge separately for the cost of connecting new buildings, so that such costs do not fall on those already paying rates to water authorities; and, if not, if he will seek powers to enable them to do so.
§ Mr. Denis HowellWater authorities have powers to levy charges to recover costs from developers who requisition water mains and sewers for domestic purposes for new buildings. Otherwise water services are normally provided by water authorities in discharge of their statutory duties to supply water and to provide such public sewers as are necessary for effectually draining their area. The sum recovered on requisition depends on a formula which takes account of the cost of the works, other than the provision of sewage treatment or water treatment work, and the charges levied in the area. Separate terms and conditions are normally negotiated for providing water services for non-domestic premises.