HC Deb 11 March 2003 vol 401 cc139-40W
Norman Baker

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what her policy is on the continuation of charging regimes for drinking water based on 1973 rateable values. [101693]

Mr. Morley

It is open to water companies to set unmeasured charges on the basis of rateable values, or to propose another basis, subject to the approval of the Director General of Water Services. The Government remain ready to discuss any proposals with those interested in devising a practicable alternative to rateable value as the basis for unmeasured charging. Any such scheme would need to address how to deal with transitional effects and how to ensure an acceptable outcome for different groups of customers, particularly vulnerable consumers. Household customers have the statutory right to opt for a measured charge if they prefer.