Tuesday 19 September 2023

Government criticised over lack of social tariffs

The House of Lords Industry and Regulators Committee has written a letter criticising the government for not implementing social tariffs to help people struggling with their water bills.

The letter also mentions concerns about underinvestment in water infrastructure, the delay in banning plastic-containing wet wipes and the government's response to these issues.

The committee said: "Significant past underinvestment in the sector has left a cumulative backlog of investment in the face of the significant challenges of reducing water pollution and increasing water supply. The need for investment in the sector is huge."

The committee is calling on the government to increase investment in the water sector, provide guidance to regulators, introduce social tariffs, set long term investment goals, use water meters, and clarify its plans for sustainable drainage.

Chair of the committee, Lord Hollick, says there's a lack of policy and leadership in the water sector, and the government needs to provide clearer guidance to regulators.

Lord Hollick, Chair of the Industry and Regulators Committee, said: "While the government has begun to set out its vision for the sector, our cross-party committee has concluded unanimously that there is insufficient policy or drive to meet the government’s targets.

"Sadly, the only thing that is becoming clear in the murky, polluted waters of the sewage crisis is a lack of leadership and deep-rooted complacency.

"The government must therefore provide firmer policy detail and greater guidance to regulators, who cannot be left to resolve these huge challenges by themselves

Energy Live News has contacted the Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs for comment.