Vince Cable

At a meeting last night between residents of Twickenham, St Margarets and Isleworth, and Thames Water management, under the Chairmanship of MP Vincent Cable, it was established that the company is to press ahead with a study of local mosquitoes in order to discover how much of the problem originates in the sewage works and how much is due to localised pockets of stagnant water in drains, sewers, and gardens.

Residents have been alarmed by this summers mosquitoes that have appeared in large numbers and bite viciously causing serious distress especially to young children. A mosquito expert, used by Thames Water to monitor and protect the Mogden plant (Mark Colvin of Green Hunter) explained that London had a longstanding mosquito problem, which had grown with the London Underground, and produced large numbers of one of Britain's 32 species that is particularly prone to attack humans. He acknowledged that Mogden was one of the sources though not the only one in the area.

He also explained that on a hot and humid night mosquitoes could travel well over a mile. Vincent Cable said: "the debate was somewhat inconclusive but we established that Thames Water has a responsibility in this area and will study the problem seriously. I have had serious complaints from Whitton and Twickenham and residents do want to get to the bottom of the problem".

After a summer in which there have been numerous "odour incidents" Thames Water is pressing ahead with a further £3m investment programme to try to limit smells.

Vincent Cable said he welcomed "the more open spirit of discussion with Thames Water management. Residents feel somewhat powerless dealing with a big multinational company especially after court action failed earlier this year. The management have to understand the frustration and anger of many residents and I am glad they are now making a serious effort to communicate".