HC Deb 23 May 1988 vol 134 cc66-7W
Mr. Pike

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what has been the effect of switching from historic cost accounting to current cost accounting on profit targets set by the Government for each water authority; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Moynihan

Profit targets for water authorities have been set in current cost terms since their introduction in 1981–82.

Mr. Pike

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what is the currently estimated value of the assets of each water authority; what was the figure during the financial year 1983–84; what it will be in 1989–90; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Moynihan

Figures for assets for 1981–82 to 1986–87 are published in the water authorities' accounts for 1986–87. The figures for 1987–88 will be available shortly when the 1987–88 accounts are placed before Parliament. Figures for later years are not available.

Mr. Pike

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what is the current income of each water authority from sources other than water rates; what is the current expenditure of each on assets not directly connected with the maintenance of the water supply; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Moynihan

The information requested by the hon. Member is published in the water authorities' annual accounts which are laid before Parliament. The 1987–88 account will be available shortly.

Mr. Ron Davies

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment how much was spent by each English water authority in 1987–88 on(a) water quality regulation, (b) water resources, (c) water supply, (d) land drainage and flood protection, (e) recreation, amenities, fisheries and navigation, and (f) sewage collection, treatment and disposal.

Mr. Moynihan

The information requested by the hon. Member will be published in the annual accounts of the water authorities, which will be laid before Parliament in July.