HL Deb 08 February 1993 vol 542 cc34-5WA
Lord Molloy

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What means will be considered for helping poorer families who have difficulty in meeting rising water bills.

Lord Henley

In April, income-related benefits will be uprated fully in line with inflation. In addition, people on income support will no longer be required to meet local taxes. Effectively, this means that income support rates will be increased by £750 million above inflation, worth up to £145 in a full year for a couple.

Families on income support who have water charge debts bills will continue to have access to direct payments from benefit.