§ Mr. Normantonasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what representations he has received from local authorities on the proposed new system of water rate billing; and wheher he is satisfied that the new arrangements will work smoothly.
§ Mr. Denis HowellThe water authority chairmen have recently impressed on me the substantial financial and operational advantages of direct billing. Representations for and against direct billing have been received from some local authorities, hon. Members and others. I am seeking the views of Local authority associations.