02/02/06
National symposium checks on progress of UK water and wastewater services
Concern about water resources was a key issue at Source 2006, the national water symposium hosted by Environment and Climate Change Minister Elliot Morley at Lancaster House in London last week.
But health, bills, climate change, investment and the environment were also high on the agenda for industry executives, regulators and influential stakeholders.
Joint effort
In his keynote address Mr Morley said that everyone had a responsibility to help manage the current drought in south east England by ensuring that water was used sensibly.
"No single body can make this happen. It is not simply down to the water companies, or to Government, or to consumers, to take action. Only a joint effort from every one of us to understand what we can do, and then do it, will reduce the risk of shortages should this period of low rainfall extend to the summer."
Mr Morley also covered consumer representation, housing expansion and the water framework directive.
Necessary steps
In response Pamela Taylor, Water UK Chief Executive, underlined the industry's commitment to working with all its stakeholders to minimise the impact of the drought on the the environment and public supply.
"The companies are working with the Environment Agency to hold the impact of low rainfall on the environment and public supply to a minimum. If the drought continues we cannot rule out extending the limits on non-essential use beyond the household sector. Whatever happens we will not delay in taking the necessary steps."
Reviewing progress on earlier challenges Pamela Taylor spoke of successful efforts to promote the good hydration as a requirment of good health; the outcome of the 2004 price review and the industry's social agenda; and developments in sustainable water management. She also introduced the Source 2006 challenges:
• The water environment from catchment to tap
• Encouraging the consumer voice
• Finance for industry investment.
To read Pamela Taylor's speech click here
During the speech, Pamela Taylor also announced that the water industry would be a major partner in Sport Relief 2006.
Ends
For more information please contact:
Barrie Clarke, Director of Communication
Note
Full details of Source 2006, the national water symposium, will be published here in early March.
