This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Parliament debates Water Services Bill
17/11/2004
MSPs today heard an explanation of the key principles underpinning the Executive's Water Services Bill which aims to protect public supply and introduce a more robust and accountable system for setting charges.
Opening the Parliament's Stage one debate, Environment Minister Ross Finnie said:
"We are building a first rate public water industry that meets the highest possible standards of water quality and environmental compliance and that is capable of supporting new housing and business development.
"The Water Services Bill will continue to place the greatest importance on public health by ensuring that no risks are taken with our drinking water.
"It also responds to the different needs of households and businesses, ensuring that essential services are available at lowest possible cost.
"The creation of a new regulatory framework overseen by a Water Industry Commission will cement the transparency, accountability and stability that we need at the heart of our water industry.
"It will provide robust regulation and strong customer representation - delivering safe, clean water services in the interests of the people of Scotland."
The Bill ensures that Ministers retain full control of all public policy decisions for the water industry, and provides a framework for the decisions on charges that Ministers are due to announce in January.
Amendments will be made at Stage two of the Bill to enhance the role of the Water Customer Consultation Panels - giving customers a stronger, clearer voice.