HC Deb 22 July 1993 vol 229 cc347-8W
Sir John Stanley

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment (1) what has been the increase in water prices in England in(a) cash and (b) real terms since water privatisation;

(2) what has been the increase in water prices in England in (a) cash and (b) real terms since 1979.

Mr. Yeo

Between 1979–80 and 1989–90 the average domestic water rate bill increased nationally by 187 per cent. in cash terms—a real terms increase of 45.2 per cent.

Since privatisation, the weighted average increase in water charges in England in cash terms has been 52.1 per cent.—a real terms increase of 21.2 per cent.

Sir John Stanley

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what has been the increases in water prices in the areas served by(a) the Mid Kent Water Company and (b) the West Kent Water Company in (i) cash and (ii) real terms since water privatisation.

Mr. Yeo

Since privatisation, the increase in water charges in Mid Kent Water Company's area in cash terms has been 55.3 per cent.—a real terms increase of 24.2 per cent. The increase in water charges in West Kent Water Company's area in cash terms has been 84.9 per cent.—a real terms increase of 49.8 per cent.