§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Secretary of State for the Environment, in the light 952W of proposed increases in water rates by water authorities from 10 per cent, to 20 per cent, which are in excess of the guidelines and single figure inflation, what action he has taken or proposes to take to control such inflationary increases.
§ Mr. Denis Howell:Annual charges for water services including those for water supply are for each water authority to decide in the light of the needs and circumstances of its area. I am, however, keeping in touch with developments and I have been assured by the authorities that every effort is being made to avoid excessive overall increases in charges for water services. Water authorities are required to pre-notify proposed increases in charges to the Price Commission.