The House of Lords Industry and Regulators Committee will continue its inquiry on the work of Ofwat, the UK’s water regulator, by taking evidence from the following water company CEOs from 10.30am on Tuesday 18 October:
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Sarah Bentley- CEO at Thames Water
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Peter Perry – CEO at Welsh Water
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Lawrence Gosden – CEO at Southern Water
The Committee will be questioning the water companies on their environmental performance, particularly in relation to sewage discharges, and challenging them on whether executive pay and dividends in the sector are justified given the scale of water pollution.
The Committee will also discuss how to ensure future water supply in the context of the ongoing drought in many areas of England and Wales, consider whether stronger sanctions are needed to improve water company performance, and explore whether current levels of support for those struggling to pay their water bills are fair and sufficient.
The session can be followed live on Parliament TV or in person in Committee Room 3, Palace of Westminster.
Possible questions include:
- What sorts of strategic solutions are needed to ensure future water supply? Should solutions such as compulsory water metering and water transfers be considered?
- How does Ofwat find a balance between allowing water companies to invest in the environment and ensuring consumer bills remain affordable? Is more guidance needed from the Government in this area?
- Should a single social tariff be introduced covering all water companies in England and Wales, so that the same support for those struggling to pay their bills is available regardless of postcode?
- Are current levels of dividends and executive pay justified given the environmental performance of the sector?
