§ Mr. Richard Wainwrightasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will collect information from the water authorities as to the financial effects of the installation of water meters in both domestic and commercial properties; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Giles ShawAll water authorities offer their domestic and commercial customers the option of a metered water supply where it is both practical to do so and the customer pays for the cost of installation. Whether this alternative method of charging is a viable proposition depends on a number of factors, including the size of the household or staff employed, the number of water appliances in use, the relationship between existing bills based on rateable value and estimates of future water consumption, and differences between the measured and unmeasured tariffs for water supply. The physical arrangements for the supply of water to the premises will determine the location of the water meter.
Given the wide variations that can exist between each property it is not practical to collect information on an individual basis concerning the financial effects. All water authorities have available helpful publicity leaflets and anyone wishing to consider this option should seek details from their water authority.