§ Mr. Thorpeasked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he will postpone any policy decision on the proposed establishment of new water authority departments to collect water rates pending discussion with the local authorities covered by the South-West Water Authority, on alternative methods of collection.
§ Mr. Denis HowellQuestions of organisation and establishment are the responsibility of the water authorities. I understand that the South West Water Authority has had full discussions with the local authorities in its region about its decision to introduce direct billing of water charges, although it is under no obligation to do so. My right hon. Friend intends to raise this subject with the chairmen of the water authorities when he meets them later this month.