Food and Rural Affairs, if he will take steps to ensure that water companies reduce water bills; and what steps he is taking to ensure that water companies do not pass the costs of (a) any fines incurred, (b) debts and (c) infrastructure upgrades on to customers.
This Government has been clear that vital infrastructure investment is ringfenced and can only be spent on upgrades benefiting customers and the environment. When money for investment is not spent, companies must refund customers, with money never allowed to be diverted for bonuses, dividends or salary increases. New infrastructure will need to be paid for, and while water companies can attract private investment, this will also need to come from customer bills. It is Ofwat's responsibility to independently scrutinise water company plans to ensure that the prices water companies charge their customers are fair and proportionate. We have inherited a water system spilling record levels of sewage into our rivers, lakes and seas. Water companies must take action to turn this around and Ofwat must ensure customers do not pay twice for upgrades.