Lords’ inquiry into Ofwat to quiz former chair Jonson Cox

Former Ofwat chair Jonson Cox will give evidence tomorrow to the House of Lords Industry and Regulators Committee inquiry into the work of Ofwat.

The committee said possible questions include:

• what sorts of strategic solutions are needed to ensure future water supply and should solutions such as compulsory water metering and water transfers be considered?

• how does Ofwat find a balance between allowing water companies to invest in the environment and ensuring consumer bills remain affordable? Is more guidance needed from the government in this area?

• should a single social tariff be introduced covering all water companies in England and Wales, so that the same support for those struggling to pay their bills is available regardless of postcode? and

• do water companies truly fear the consequences of regulatory action, and if so, is this fear a financial or merely reputational one and are stronger sanctions needed for failing companies?

The session will run from 10.30am until 12pm and can be followed live on Parliament TV or in person in Committee Room 2, Palace of Westminster.