HC Deb 16 January 1995 vol 252 c293W
Mr. Fatchett

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what plans he has to discuss with the Director General of Ofwat the contracting out of sewage contracts by water companies; and if he will make a statement.

Mrs. Helen Jackson

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment (1) what discussions he has had with the Director General of Ofwat about the advisability of water companies contracting out their care services of water and waste water treatment;

(2) what powers he has to prevent water companies from inviting bids to contract out their water treatment operations; and if he will make a statement;

(3) what powers he has to prevent water companies from inviting bids to contract out their waste water treatment operations; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Atkins

The decision to contract out the maintenance and operation of services is a matter for individual water and sewerage companies.