§ Mr. BrakeTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions, pursuant to his answer of 12 March 1998,Official Report, column 261, if he will enable the Drinking Water Inspectorate to seek financial authorisation for water companies from Ofwat to enable water companies to carry out remedial works which will prevent a breach of standards before that breach occurs. [35299]
§ Angela EagleIt is the duty of water companies to supply drinking water which complies with the Water Quality Regulations. The financial regime operated by Ofwat already allows companies money to maintain their systems at the levels required to meet current water quality standards. Allowing companies further money for such works would not be appropriate. If unforeseen circumstances arise, or new standards are introduced which result in water companies needing to carry out works or install new treatment plant, the mechanism already exists for this expenditure to be certified as necessary by the DWI and taken into account by Ofwat in the next price review.