Read our media statement here.
The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) has published its long-awaited Water White Paper this week, setting out proposed reforms to the water industry in England.
CAP has expressed disappointment that the Government has chosen not to include a commitment to introduce a national social tariff for water.
Juliette Flach, CAP’s Policy and Public Affairs Manager, said:
“The Government has missed a crucial opportunity to tackle water poverty by failing to commit to a national social tariff. People on low incomes are already being forced to make impossible choices to keep up with rising bills — from our own polling we know that over 6 million adults across the UK went without other essentials such as electricity or gas at least once a month in the past year because of financial challenges. From our experience on the frontline, many people will also be forced to cut back on essential water use. This is unacceptable, and it risks pushing more households into crisis.
“A national water social tariff would provide meaningful, consistent support and ensure that where you live does not determine the help you receive. While the White Paper refers to working with water companies to improve social tariffs, this falls far short of what is needed. CAP will continue to press for a fair, effective national scheme that protects people on low incomes from water poverty.”
CAP will continue to work with partners, regulators and policymakers to push for urgent action to ensure access to affordable water for everyone.
