§ Mr. Wareingasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what representations he has received about proposed increases in water rates; if he will review the borrowing powers of water authorities in order to effect a stabilisation of water rate levels; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MacfarlaneSome 80 representations, including five questions have been received from hon. Members and others concerning increases in water services charges next year. As my right hon. Friend, the Secretary of State for the Environment announced on 12 November 1984 in reply to a question from my hon. Friend the Member for Leominster (Mr. Temple-Morris) at columns67–69, the external finance limit for water authorities in England and Wales for 1985–86 will be £203 million. There are no plans to change this.