Support the Scouts

12.00.00am GMT Fri 20th Mar 2009

Colin Breed, Liberal Democrat Member of Parliament for South East Cornwall has today leant his support to a campaign to ensure fair water charges for the Constituency's local Scout Groups and other voluntary organisations. Water regulator Ofwat has issued guidance on payment for waste water runoff, which will lead to massive increases in costs for voluntary groups already struggling to make ends meet.

Scout groups in Cornwall will soon be facing bill hikes of up to 400%. Nearly two thirds of Scout Groups in Cornwall own, or own the majority of their buildings - spending more money on water rates will leave less money available for activities, and may put higher cost events in jeopardy. An Early Day Motion has been tabled in Parliament (see here)

Colin Breed said,

"Scout Groups do an amazing job in Cornwall, helping young people engage with society and giving adults an opportunity to put something back. I have signed this motion to express my dismay to Ofwat that their actions are unfairly penalising Scout Groups and other voluntary organisations.

"I would hope South West Water would delay implementation of these rule changes until a satisfactory solution for all sides can be worked out."