Written question WQ96018
- Asked by
- Gareth DaviesConservative
- To be answered by
- Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Climate Change and Rural Affairs
- Tabled
- Due
- Answered
- Time to answer
- 4 days
Question
What discussions has the Cabinet Secretary had with Dŵr Cymru regarding the 27 per cent average rise in water bills?
Answer
Answered by Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Climate Change and Rural Affairs
Water Bills are set by the water companies and Ofwat. We expect them to consider affordability for all customers, especially those who are struggling to pay their bills. I have met with the water companies and made clear to them this is a priority.
Balancing the need to keep bills affordable with the investment required to meet future needs and demands for water and wastewater services is a challenge. This includes responding to public demand for reducing the environmental impact of wastewater discharges.
Over the next five years, Dŵr Cymru is boosting its support for customers struggling the most with paying their bills, raising the total assistance to £73 million.