§ Mr. Murphyasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what encouragement is being given to publishing the availability of water meters for domestic consumers; and if he will make a statement on where this system is available and the level of take-up.
§ Mr. WaldegraveSince 1981, the Government have supported the initiative by the water industry to extend the offer of metering to all its consumers. Subject to satisfactory supply arrangements, any consumer in England and Wales can opt for a metered supply provided they pay the cost of installation.
All water authorities and water companies have advertised their schemes and have detailed explanatory material available on request.
It is estimated that the number of households receiving a metered water supply has increased from 35,629 in 1981 to 66,600 in the current year.