To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs whether his Department has made an impact assessment of new site area-based charges for surface drainage on (a) sports clubs, (b) churches and (c) other voluntary groups. (252621)

Ofwat, the independent economic regulator for the water industry, is responsible for approving charging schemes. The Government are aware of the affordability issues faced by some customers as a result of the switch from charging based on rateable value to site area and are currently reviewing their position.