Menu
22/06/2012
Government Guidance Tells Water Company's To Cut Bills For The Poor
The government will issue guidance to water companies in England and Wales to allow them to charge lower prices for the poorest customers.
Ministers want to see "social tariffs" based on ability to pay, as part of a broader drive to reduce utility bills.
With an estimated 2.4 million households have trouble paying their water bills, which cost an average of £376 a year, water companies will be asked to select the customers who are most at risk and offer them a discount.
They are currently bound by regulator Ofwat's licensing conditions, which means they cannot cut bills without contravening the law.
This new government guidance, developed following a consultation by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, will allow them to make cuts.
Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg said: "If you're struggling to make ends meet, not paying for essential utilities isn't an option but it can mean making tough choices elsewhere; like sacrificing healthy meals for the family or new school books.
"We've already announced tough new measures to see gas and electric bills fall by up to £100 a year. This will see struggling families save more."
Water companies are also expected to support vulnerable customers with advice on how to use water more efficiently, guidance on whether installing a water meter could save them money and referrals to debt and benefits advice.
(H)
Ministers want to see "social tariffs" based on ability to pay, as part of a broader drive to reduce utility bills.
With an estimated 2.4 million households have trouble paying their water bills, which cost an average of £376 a year, water companies will be asked to select the customers who are most at risk and offer them a discount.
They are currently bound by regulator Ofwat's licensing conditions, which means they cannot cut bills without contravening the law.
This new government guidance, developed following a consultation by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, will allow them to make cuts.
Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg said: "If you're struggling to make ends meet, not paying for essential utilities isn't an option but it can mean making tough choices elsewhere; like sacrificing healthy meals for the family or new school books.
"We've already announced tough new measures to see gas and electric bills fall by up to £100 a year. This will see struggling families save more."
Water companies are also expected to support vulnerable customers with advice on how to use water more efficiently, guidance on whether installing a water meter could save them money and referrals to debt and benefits advice.
(H)
Related UK National News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
29 August 2003
'Dismay' over proposed increases to water charges
WaterVoice reacted with dismay yesterday to the announcement by the water industry body Water UK that the expected average water bill of £240 in 2004-05 could rise by £15 on top of inflation, every year for the next five years; a total increase of £75 (or 31%).
'Dismay' over proposed increases to water charges
WaterVoice reacted with dismay yesterday to the announcement by the water industry body Water UK that the expected average water bill of £240 in 2004-05 could rise by £15 on top of inflation, every year for the next five years; a total increase of £75 (or 31%).
20 January 2004
31% rises in water bills may be underestimate: WaterVoice
The huge rises in water bills predicted last year by the industry may have been seriously underestimated, according to the water utility watchdog WaterVoice.
31% rises in water bills may be underestimate: WaterVoice
The huge rises in water bills predicted last year by the industry may have been seriously underestimated, according to the water utility watchdog WaterVoice.
05 July 2012
New Guidance On Rape Charges Won By Victims Family
The family of a nurse killed by her former partner while he was on bail for raping her has won a campaign to change legal guidance, meaning murderers who commit rape can be charged for both.
New Guidance On Rape Charges Won By Victims Family
The family of a nurse killed by her former partner while he was on bail for raping her has won a campaign to change legal guidance, meaning murderers who commit rape can be charged for both.
01 March 2006
Water firm to introduce meters
A water company in the south east of England has been given permission to install compulsory water meters in homes. Folkestone and Dover Water Services was granted "water scarcity status", which will allow it to force all 65,000 homes in its service area to install meters.
Water firm to introduce meters
A water company in the south east of England has been given permission to install compulsory water meters in homes. Folkestone and Dover Water Services was granted "water scarcity status", which will allow it to force all 65,000 homes in its service area to install meters.
18 September 2003
Water regulators consider options on bill payments
WaterVoice and Ofwat today published the findings of research which recommends extra charges, more vigorous recovery action or other sanctions as ways to encourage customers to pay their bills.
Water regulators consider options on bill payments
WaterVoice and Ofwat today published the findings of research which recommends extra charges, more vigorous recovery action or other sanctions as ways to encourage customers to pay their bills.
-
Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
