§ Mr. Jim CunninghamTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment how many water meters have been installed to date in each region and nationally. [24038]
§ Mr. AtkinsIn 1994–95 the number of metered properties in each region of England and Wales covered by Ofwat's customer service committees was:
Thousands Domestic Non-domestic Eastern 195 147 Northumbria 15 45 North West 89 169 Central 206 210 Southern 149 102 South West 39 83 Thames 207 257 Wales 37 77 Wessex 62 68 Yorkshire 93 124 Total 1,092 1,282
§ Mr. Jim CunninghamTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment in what circumstances a water authority can oblige customers to accept water meters. [24036]
§ Mr. AtkinsIt is for water companies to decide on the most appropriate method of charging for water in their area. Since 1990, most companies have had a policy of metering new or substantially converted domestic properties on a compulsory basis. Most companies also have a policy of metering commercial premises on a compulsory basis. Where companies are extending metering to existing domestic properties they may give customers the option of continuing to pay an unmeasured charge.