To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (1) when he plans the public consultation on the transfer of private sewers to water companies to begin; (145607)

An extensive review of private sewers began in 2001, prompted by the concerns of householders. A consultation in 2003 revealed a high level of support for transfer, and the Government concluded there was a clear case for action. Further informal consultation and research by DEFRA and key stakeholders explored customers’ views, estimated the costs and bill impacts of transfer, developed implementation options and identified further questions for the next stage of consultation.

Following the Government’s decision to transfer private sewers to water and sewerage companies, we intend to publish a further public consultation on the implementation options over the summer.