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Ofwat is consulting on its new duty to contribute to sustainable development in carrying out its work in regulating the water industry in England and Wales. It is asking those with an interest in its work how the organisation can make a successful contribution to ensuring that 'the quality of life of future generations is not compromised.' In the consultation, initially sent to around 180 organisations, Ofwat sets out its thinking on sustainable development including:
The response to the consultation will be considered by the Water Services Regulation Authority, which succeeds the Director General as the industry's economic regulator on 1 April. The consultation document sets out Ofwat's initial thoughts on what the new duty – part of the 2003 Water Act – means to it as the economic regulator for the water industry. Since being given the new duty last April, Ofwat engaged stakeholders, including sustainable development specialists, representatives from the water industry, and related organisations in a workshop. It has also reviewed its own housekeeping to encourage recycling and cut energy use. Ofwat's Director General Philip Fletcher says: "We welcome this new duty, and want to engage positively with our stakeholders in developing our approach. Our task is to promote value for consumers, not just in the narrow sense of their water bills, but also in the wider sense of value for the environment, for achieving social objectives and for the economy. Our emphasis will be on rigorous analysis to achieve optimal outcomes over the longer term." Notes to Editors: 1. The Director General of Water Services is the economic regulator of the water and sewerage companies in England and Wales. He exercises his powers in a way that he judges will allow them to carry out their functions properly, and finance them. His duties include protecting the interests of consumers, wherever appropriate by promoting effective competition. He will be succeeded by the Water Services Regulation Authority on 1 April 2006. 2. The consultation document 'Contributing to sustainable development – a consultation on Ofwat's approach' can be found on Ofwat's website at www.ofwat.gov.uk. Responses should be received by 17 May 2006. MEDIA ENQUIRIES TO OFWAT PRESS OFFICE ON: 0121 625 1416/1496/1442 Out of hours enquiries to pager: 08700 555 500 water 502/503. Ofwat publications and press notices can be found on Ofwat's website at: www.ofwat.gov.uk  | ||||||
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