Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, pursuant to the Answer of 21 May 2025 to Question 51391 on Water Charges, whether his Department has made an assessment of the potential impact of (a) progressive and (b) rising block metering tariffs on water bills for homes occupied by families with children.

As the water regulator, Ofwat regulates the charging trials by issuing rules that require companies to set fair charges for all customers, and to ensure all trials are consistent with good practice principles. Companies must also consult with the Consumer Council for Water in developing their trials to ensure that appropriate safeguards are in place. Through these trials the sector will learn how to best support customers, including families, with their water bills.