Ofwat Must Balance Interests of Environment and Consumers - Baker

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Wed 3rd Sep 2003

Norman Baker MP, Liberal Democrat Shadow Environment Secretary

Commenting on Ofwat's publication of water companies' draft business plans, which suggests that household bills will need to rise by more than 30% in total over the next 5 years, Norman Baker MP, Liberal Democrat Shadow Environment Secretary, said:

"It is important that water companies take necessary steps to deliver good environmental performance, but it is disappointing they feel it is necessary to raise bills so far above inflation to do so."

"Ofwat has a crucial role in balancing the interests of the consumer with the environment. consumers should be switching to metered rates and expensive water suppliers should be reducing the cost of metered water."

"What all companies should be doing, and generally aren't, is to make real efforts to reduce water consumption amongst consumers and businesses, in order that expensive measures to provide extra water are not required."

"Consumers should be switching to metered rates and expensive water suppliers should be reducing the cost of metered water."