Member

However, there is another element here. I have been given to understand, to my astonishment, that there is pressure from so-called “upstairs” not to include this because—this is the amazing part—of a fear that it might “put off” investors. The department, regulators, investors and consumers all need to be absolutely clear on what financial structuring and debt commitments are being taken on, and if they are being altered. The water companies themselves would also benefit from being up front with the regulator and other stakeholders about the direction they are taking. To suggest, as it has been to me, that these matters would be better not specifically highlighted on a regular basis is to undermine transparency and obstruct the very due diligence that all stakeholders should be able to expect and that water companies should deliver.