“My Lords, going back to the criminal convictions the water companies at the moment have 12,000 criminal convictions against them. So can the noble Lord, the minister, tell me at what level, what number will you consider these people criminals and not fit to have an operating license to deliver our water?” (Baroness Jones of Moulsecoomb)
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“I will try to help the noble
minister. Is he aware that the American president is now investing in private
companies in a way that the USA has not seen, or done before, seeing the
strategic advantage in that. When we present the water bill, could we please
explore alternatives to the methods we presently have for investment and
ownership and try to spread it over a broader front?” (Lord Brooke of
Alverthorpe)
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What does it means in simple words? "What
is the social cost of leaving England’s water companies in private
ownership?" In simple words, "What is the social cost of leaving
England’s water companies in private ownership?" is asking about the
negative effects or problems that can happen if water companies in England stay
privately owned instead of being owned by the government or the public. It
looks at how this choice might impact people, communities, and the environment,
such as whether it leads to higher prices for water, less investment in
infrastructure, or poorer service. Essentially, it’s about understanding the
trade-offs and consequences of keeping these companies in private hands.
We will be publishing a white paper, and we hope
to have a water reform bill in the next Parliament. What does "a white
paper" mean? A white paper is a detailed and authoritative report or guide
that addresses a specific issue, presents policy proposals, or outlines plans
for future action. In the context of government and politics, it typically
serves to inform stakeholders and the public about a proposed course of action,
legislative changes, or reforms. White papers often include background
information, research findings, and recommendations, and they can be used to
generate discussion and feedback before finalizing proposals, such as a water
reform bill in your example. They play an important role in the policymaking
process by laying the groundwork for legislation and gathering support or input
from various stakeholders.