§ Mr. SteenTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what the average annual level of sewerage charges is on homes in(a) Devon, (b) the United Kingdom and (c) his Department's estate in Denbury. [151882]
§ Mr. BoatengUnmeasured sewerage charges consist of a fixed charge and a charge based on the rateable value of the property, both of which vary by water company. Information on unmeasured sewerage charges published by the Office of Water Services (Ofwat) show that in England and Wales in the financial year 2000–01, the weighted average fixed charge is £41.50 and the weighted average charged based on rateable value is 46.89p in the pound. Figures for South West Water, which covers Devon, are £42 and 112.35P in the pound respectively. The charges for the properties in the former Prison Service quarters estates are based on South West Water's figures and are equivalent to the charge which would be made by that company.