§ Mr. ToddTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will list those water companies which offer lower drainage charges where a property does not drain surface water into a public sewer; and if he will ensure that all water companies are obliged to offer such a charge. [8462]
§ Angela EagleLower drainage charges for customers who do not receive a surface water drainage service are offered by three water companies: North West Water, Severn Trent Water and (for customers with rateable values over £7000) Northumbrian Water. Customers are liable for sewerage service charges and companies are not obliged to offer this rebate. The Director General of Water Services, however, would not like to see customers charged for a service which is not provided, and has raised this matter in discussion with companies.