§ Mr. Andrew Bowdenasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what is the average standing charge levied by water authorities.
§ Mr. WaldegraveFor 1983–84, it is estimated that the average standing charge to a household receiving an unmeasured service is £8.25 for water supply and £4.88 for sewerage services.
§ Mr. Andrew Bowdenasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will now consider reforming the system of water charges to assist elderly people, particularly single persons, with the payment of bills; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. WaldegraveNo. The present arrangements are working satisfactorily. Successive Governments have adopted the policy that if help needs to be given it is provided through the social security system. That is why the full cost of water services charges is taken into account when supplementary benefit is calculated.