9 March 2007
The Green Party has attacked water suppliers' decision to raise the costs for water services for not providing enough of an incentive for consumers to start saving their water.
According to the party, the rate changes are not focussed enough on environmental aspects and as such, are in breach of the European Water Framework Directive, reports the BBC.
In a prepared statement, the party said: "We believe the most efficient way of providing quality of life for all is to minimise the gap between rich and poor and improve accessibility to community services."
Consumers became concerned after it was revealed that all water suppliers in the UK were to raise their charges above the rate of inflation with one of the largest charges coming from Anglian Water, which is imposing an increase of more than 13%.
Christine McDonald, of water industry watchdog CCWater Eastern, recently told Cambridge News: "We are concerned that these bills could hit some customers quite hard, especially when they come on top of other increases, such as those in Council Tax, gas and electricity bills."
All the water suppliers are stating that the increase in price is required to help them meet with industry regulator Ofwat's requirements and to help meet leakage reducing targets, though many consumers have complained that it is unfair to charge them more for what is essentially still sub-standard service for many.
If you don't have a water meter installed, you could be paying over the odds for your bills. uSwitch.com can help you work out your usage and see if installing a water meter could help you save money. Read our water saving tips too.
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