WATER METERS COMPULSORY
EXCLUSIVE Families hardest hit But bills 'will drop'
Every home in Britain will have to have a water meter fitted in the next few years.
A typical family of four could be up to £200 worse off a year - but the average bill is likely to fall.
Ministers will unveil the proposals in January as part of their new Water Strategy, which aims to protect supplies and help combat global warming.
It will be compulsory for water companies to install meters from 2010. The work should be complete by 2015.
At present, about a third of Britain's 26 million homes have a meter. Ministers hope the proposals will eventually cut water use by up to a third.
The average annual water bill is £162. But critics say families will be hit hardest as water companies charge for actual usage rather than by household.
However, Government sources say the proposals - being drawn up by Climate Change Minister Phil Woolas - will mean lower water bills for most people.
The single and elderly will benefit especially.
Meters should also help consumers spot leaks quicker as they show sudden rises in the amount of water used.
Other changes will see water firms repairing leaking pipes in homes.
People will also be encouraged to collect rainwater to wash their cars and water their garden.
Mr Woolas refused to be drawn on the details of the Water Strategy, but he said: "The case for universal metering is now overwhelming - provided there is protection for low income and large families."
It is believed ministers would cap the bills for poorer families and those with lots of children.
Thames Water said: "We believe metering is the fairest way of charging as it directly links consumption to cost."
Mirror
