How does the Welsh Government intend to increase accountability in the provision and operation of water and wastewater networks, given that its recent Strategic Priorities and Objectives Statement to Ofwat indicates that further promotion of competition in the sector is undesirable?
Our approach is one of collaboration underpinned by the ways of working in the Well-being of Future Generations (Wales) Act 2015 (the Act), where the water companies work with stakeholders such as local authorities, catchment partnerships, wildlife trusts, private landowners, Public Health Wales and community groups. This is in line with our distinct legislative framework. We expect Ofwat and the water companies to have regard to the goals and ways of working set out in the Act.
Promoting competition can add to complexity and costs of regulation, more complex accountability, and can distract water companies from their core activities and partnership working.