5 June 2006
The use of water meters has been cited by the government and those involved in the water industry as a key way of cutting water usage in areas suffering from shortages.
During a meeting that included representatives from water companies, the industry body Water UK, Ofwat, the Environment Agency, and the Consumer Council for Water, the government agreed that water metering was an important way to reduce water usage.
Environment secretary David Miliband and environment minister Ian Pearson were the government representatives who met the delegation.
"Water metering currently stands at 28% of households and we will look at the scope for increasing that in areas of water stress," said Mr Miliband and Mr Pearson, in a joint statement.
They also commented on the recent issuing of drought orders in the south-east, which was discussed at the meeting.
"Drought order powers should be used sensitively and progressively," they said.
"The water companies confirmed that the powers they have are appropriate for delivering any drought plan measures which might prove necessary."
They also cited leakage as a factor that had to be tackled by water companies. The record of certain companies on leakage has been attacked by consumer groups recently in the light of rising profits.
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