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Media centre
Ofwat is committed to openness and transparency. That's the message from Philip Fletcher, Director General of Water Services in his Annual Report. This year Ofwat commissioned an independent survey of its stakeholders to consider its effectiveness and its processes. This stakeholder survey showed that Ofwat is seen as an effective regulator and an authoritative voice on regulatory issues. Philip Fletcher said: "We are seen as improving in the way we work with others. Our consultations are getting better, and we are seen as consistent in our approach. But the survey also shows us what we need to work at and we shall aim:
Ofwat will repeat the survey, probably in 2005-06, to ensure that it continues to follow the principles of good regulation. Since the survey's fieldwork Ofwat has improved transparency by publishing its methodology paper for the 2004 price review with comments on responses to its consultation, showing where and why it changed its mind or confirmed its first view. Ofwat has also recently issued the updated financial model, Aquarius 3, which will be used to set price limits in 2004. The annual report shows that the preparations for the 2004 price review has been the focus of Ofwat's work over the past year. Ofwat has also made progress on its routine but essential work in monitoring the companies' performance. Ofwat has given advice to the Government on the Water Bill, which will change the shape of competition in the economic regulation of the industry in the years to come. It has also been involved in the changes of ownership and financial structure which have affected several water and sewerage companies over the last year. Ofwat's decisions and approach have been helped by the new Ofwat board, with four non-executive advisory directors, which has now been in operation for a year. Ofwat's cost to customers remains at under 50p per connected property, despite a budget increase needed to prepare for the price review. Note to Editors: 1. The Director General of Water Services is the economic regulator of the water and sewerage industries 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. Customers' interests are represented by WaterVoice. 2. The Annual Report of the Director General of Water Services 2002-03 will be available from The Stationery Office, price £10.60. Lo-call Tel: 0845 702 3474 or e-mail: book.orders@tso.co.uk ISBN 0-10-292152-0. Command number: HC679 It will also be available on Ofwat's website: www.ofwat.gov.uk 3. The stakeholder survey report is available on Ofwat's website: www.ofwat.gov.uk MEDIA ENQUIRIES TO OFWAT PRESS OFFICE ON: 0121 625 1416/1496/1442 Out of hours enquiries to pager: 08700 555 500 water 503/509. Ofwat publications and press notices can be found on Ofwat's website at: www.ofwat.gov.uk  | ||||||
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