§ Mr. Frank FieldTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what assessment he has made of the operation of the law relating to the powers for a water company or others to cause a disconnection of a domestic consumer's water supply.
§ Mr. MacleanThe Director General of Water Services issued guidelines to water companies last year on a consistent and fair approach towards customers with unpaid charges. This followed a review of companies' policy and practice. He is now considering reports from the regional customer service committees on the effectiveness of the guidelines and will be considering what further action may be necessary. It is right that bills should be paid, but equally that water companies should provide every assistance to customers who are having difficulty meeting their bills.