29 August 2008
An MP from Sussex has attacked what he believes are "appalling" increases in the water rates being paid by local residents. Nick Herbert, Conservative MP for Arundel and South Downs, has written to the water regulator Ofwat to complain about price rises announced by Southern Water, the Argus reports. According to the publication, the water company has stated its intention to introduce water rate increases averaging 4.5% above inflation each year between 2010-11 and 2014-15. Mr Herbert claims this will have a serious impact on households already facing large rises in the cost of gas and electricity, food and fuel. "People on low or fixed incomes, particularly the elderly, will find it increasingly difficult to pay higher water bills along with everything else," he told the Argus. Southern Water has insisted the price increases are necessary to invest in improved services for customers. It also blames European environmental legislation obligations. Last month, the Consumer Council for Water warned that annual water bills could rise by £200 if government plans to introduce compulsory water metering are given the go ahead.
© 2008 Adfero Ltd
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