Drought

Debate between Lord Stoddart of Swindon and Lord Taylor of Holbeach

Wednesday 21st March 2012 Lords Chamber

[Lord Stoddart of Swindon]

Will the Minister ensure that water companies do not close existing storage capacity for developing housing and other things? In particular, will he get in touch with Thames Water, which is closing storage capacity in Reading?

[Lord Taylor of Holbeach]

I do not know the details of the particular case to which the noble Lord refers, but it is certainly useful to be advised of that. Thames Water is not in as acute a situation as some of the other water companies. Indeed, it is helping out water companies in Essex by transferring water from its area to Essex. This co-operation between water companies is a very good strategy, and one which the Government are anxious to encourage.