HC Deb 27 October 1998 vol 318 cc95-6W
Mr. Webb

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will make it his policy to require the Scottish water authorities to(a) ensure that their domestic mechanical water meters are accurate and durable, (b) assess the damage caused by particulate matter in water to their domestic water meters, (c) ensure that the domestic meters which they purchase from manufacturers have been tested using unfiltered water, (d) devise a strategy to reduce meter replacements arising from meter failure, (e) assess the viability of other forms of metering equipment and (f) evaluate the effects of increased flow through of layer particulate matter arising from the use of electro-magnetic and solid state meters. [55747]

Mr. Macdonald

The installation and replacement of water meters is a matter for the water authorities, who also keep under review any alternative metering devices as they become available. There are provisions covering the accuracy and testing of water meters installed for domestic customers by the Scottish water authorities in section 54 of the Water (Scotland) Act 1980, which also provides for customers to challenge the accuracy of meter readings. The Government are currently undertaking public consultations about whether to extend to Scotland the provisions of the Measuring Equipment (Cold-water Meters) Regulations 1988 which apply in England and Wales. We have no other plans to introduce new controls.

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