Written Question·Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs·UIN 117325
Water: Small Businesses
Tabled: 3 March 2026
Answered: 11 March 2026
Question
Suella Braverman
Reform UK — Fareham and Waterlooville
To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, for what reason small businesses are prohibited from purchasing water and wastewater services directly from local water companies; and whether she plans to review this restriction.
Answer
Emma HardyBusinesses, charities and public sector organisations are free to choose their water retailer for water or sewerage services. Advice for customers on choosing their retailer can be found on Ofwat’s website.