Addressing the Rising Water Bills and Holding Water Companies Accountable

Over recent months, many constituents have reached out to express their concerns about the rising cost of water bills. This issue has been a growing concern for many households, particularly as the cost of living continues to climb. Water companies are under scrutiny for their profits, the significant payments made to shareholders and debt holders, and the lack of choice for consumers in selecting suppliers. The ongoing investigation into the water industry has highlighted some deeply troubling issues that need to be addressed.

I completely understand your frustration with the current state of water pricing, especially as many families are already struggling with the rising cost of living. It is unacceptable that a significant portion of our household water bills—over a third—goes towards paying dividends and servicing debts rather than improving the service we receive. This situation highlights the fundamental issues with the way the water industry is structured.

You have rightly pointed out that the water companies are making substantial profits, while customers are being burdened with higher bills. Even though the water industry has received considerable investment to improve infrastructure, households are still being asked to pay more. This imbalance is unfair and cannot continue unchecked. As consumers, we should not have to pay higher costs while the companies rake in profits, especially when there’s limited choice in suppliers.

I am also deeply concerned about the lack of accountability in the water industry. It is alarming that companies can continue to operate despite their failure to meet environmental obligations or provide satisfactory service to customers. I fully support the call for the government to be given stronger powers to intervene when companies fail to meet the required standards, and I believe that the potential for firms to lose their licenses for serious breaches is a necessary step toward ensuring accountability and protecting the public.

As your MP, I am committed to taking action. I will be supporting amendments to the Water (Special Measures) Bill that aim to hold water companies accountable for their actions. These amendments will help prevent the exploitation of customers and ensure that water companies operate in the public interest, not solely for the benefit of private shareholders.

I will continue to press for reforms that ensure our water industry serves the public, provides fair prices, and is held accountable for its actions. Rest assured, I will do everything I can to ensure that our water bills are fair and just, and I will continue standing up for local residents in the fight for a more accountable water system.