To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what plans he has to implement the recommendation made by the Environment Committee in its report on water conservation and supply—first report, HC 42, 1996–97, concerning the establishment of a water savings trust. [10648]

Water companies are under a duty to promote the efficient use of water by their customers and have prepared water efficiency plans to implement that duty. In addition, the Government have recently established the environmental task force, which may have a role to play, for example through the installation of water-saving devices and promotion of water efficiency. The Government are keen that all complementary avenues, including the possibility of a water saving trust, are investigated, but do not envisage offering any assistance at this stage.