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Media centre
Ofwat today set out the work it plans to carry forward over the next three years. The focus of its Forward Programme document for 2004-05 to 2006-07, published today, will be on three key areas: Review of price limits At the end of 2004, Ofwat will set new price limits for all water companies to cover the period 2005 to 2010. Having received the ministerial principal guidance on the required quality programme later than expected, Ofwat has agreed revised submission dates with the companies that will enable the water regulator to receive all final business plans by the end of April. Companies will publish summaries of their plans in early May. Ofwat will issue its draft and final price limits on 5 August and 2 December respectively. Ofwat will evaluate its approach to the price review in consultation with all stakeholders after its completion. Implementing the Water Act 2003 The Act will set up a Consumer Council for Water to replace WaterVoice. Ofwat will provide advice and support Defra and WaterVoice during the set up of the new organisation, which is expected to take place during 2005-06. Ofwat will also work with stakeholders to prepare the ground for extending competition in the water industry in 2005. Under the Water Act 2003, businesses that are likely to consume at least 50 million litres of water a year will be able to buy their water from either their established water company or a newly-licensed water supplier. This will affect around 2,300 eligible large businesses that spend a total of £200 million on water each year. Day-to-day regulation Ofwat will continue to monitor annually the performance of water companies in an open and transparent way. Notes: 1.The Director General of Water Services is the economic regulator of the water and sewerage companies in England and Wales. He exercises his powers in a way that he judges will allow them to carry out their functions properly, and finance them. WaterVoice represents customers' interests. 2.Copies of the 'Ofwat Forward Programme 2004-05 to 2006-07' will be available free of charge on Ofwat's website: www.ofwat.gov.uk or from the Ofwat library on 0121 625 1373. ENQUIRIES TO OFWAT PRESS OFFICE ON: 0121 625 1442/1416/1496 Out of hours enquiries to pager: 08700 555 500 water 509. Ofwat publications and press notices can be found on Ofwat's website at: www.ofwat.gov.uk  |
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