Vince Cable

Thames Water, the local water company, has stated its intention to raise water rates by 39% between 2005 and 2010, one of the highest of any of the water companies (the average is 30%) and well in excess of expected inflation - though the average projected bull, £280 in 2009/10, is still one of the lowest. The company claims that the increases are necessary to pay for maintaining the standard of ageing pipes, improving water quality and environmental investment. Consumer watchdogs have protested over these big increases, across the country.

Vincent Cable said: "water bills are becoming a significant element in the family budget. Residents in Twickenham will wonder why they have to pay so much more when there is no commitment by Thames Water to deal with the big environmental problem facing us, the odour pollution from Mogden".