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Statement on Water

06 November 2024

Proposing MP
Kingston upon Hull West and Haltemprice
Type
Written Ministerial Statement
Department
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs

At a Glance

Issue Summary

The statement addresses the end of a taxpayer-funded rebate for South West Water (SWW) household customers after March 31, 2025.

Action Requested

The government will terminate the rebate as SWW's water bills are projected to be similar to those in other regions by the next Price Review period and there has been a decrease in the difference between water bills over the past decade. The statement also commits to addressing water poverty and supporting vulnerable customers through existing measures like WaterSure, social tariffs, payment breaks, holidays, and debt management.

Key Facts

  • Taxpayer-funded contribution for SWW household customers will end after March 31, 2025.
  • Rebate was introduced in 2013 due to higher water bills in the South West region.
  • Over the last decade, differences between water bills in the South West and other regions have decreased.
  • Ofwat projects SWW customers will have similar bills as others by 2025-2029 Price Review period.
  • WaterSure and social tariffs are measures available for vulnerable customers.
Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy