Today sees the launch of a major report on the future of the UK Water Industry. 

The All Party Water Group’s report calls for the Government to take action over shortages, promoting water efficiency, affordability and regulation. Significantly, it calls for water meters to be installed in every home.  

This evening Water Minister Phil Woolas will attend a reception in the House of Commons where members of the group will be joined by representatives from industry, environmental groups, CC water and those campaigning on water efficiency.      

Linda Gilroy, who is Secretary of the Group, was part of a small panel of MPs and peers who undertook an intense round of interviews and research, taking evidence from industry, consumer groups and other relevant parties. The group was chaired by former Environment Minister Elliot Morley MP.  

Linda Gilroy said "The South West has long suffered some of the highest and most unfair water charges in the country. Prices paid in the region reflect the major investment in dealing with sewerage and cleaning up the coastline and beaches".  

"This report is a national report which seeks to address a wide range of issues relating the challenges of flooding and drought as well as affordability. Its recommendations could help us to address some of the longstanding problems relating to affordability in the South West.  In looking at the role of the consumer council, local authorities and the regulatory system - and making a clear call for universal metering - the report is a clarion call to Government to give the industry a more sustainable basis on which to address these challenges."   

Linda Gilroy added “This report will be very helpful to those of us in the South West who have been calling for Government to tackle the affordability problems unique to our region. Some of these recommendations will be important tools for us to use in the Government's review of charging and metering. It is up to us to use them to give momentum to the long running campaign to get something done about our unfair and high water bills. It will not provide solutions overnight - but does let us see some light at the end of the tunnel."  

You can read the full report here .

You can read a summary of the key statements relating to South West affordability issues here

Above: Linda Gilroy with Water Minister Phil Woolas MP 

2 April 2008