We live in modern times, calculations are made simple. But even in the early part of the 20^th century, minds soon discovered ways of calculating quantities of liquids, measuring distances and so forth. But if you set someone up as a “regulator”, it means they will regulate whatever it is they have control over, so as to banish inequality. Except that, when then there are “outside forces” with there hands on the tiller, how easy is it for them to be swept along the ocean out of control? So what’s what with OFWAT, then?

When you listen too closely to the “needs” of park operators and their associates, the noises they make blots out the pleas of those that actually pay for the stuff that comes out their pipes. All they want is to pay a fair price for what they actually consume each period. Nothing more, nothing less. And the answer to that simple request is the fitting of a water meter: Job done. But we’ve forgotten something haven’t we? Its rather like trespassing on someone else’s property, when up against so many of the swines in this industry. You kissed goodbye to many of your basic rights when you entered your chosen park for the first time, especially if you’re unlucky enough to have to un-metered charges.

How helpful it was of OFWAT to give these guys as many options of how to extract any amount they choose for the commodity that starts out falling from the sky for free. But when it comes through trhat pipe , OFWAT wash their hands of the situation. The most advantageous and unfair system is to charge an assumed “equal” shre of whatever sum is deemed appropriate this period.

So what is the answer? Let’s look at it this way. If you went into a filling station, and purchased £30 worth of fuel to fill your tank, but when you reached the till the cashier told you it will cost you £40, you would refuse to pay the £10. If you were further advised that the sum being charged was based on an average purchase price over a given period, you would have a clear legal argument not to pay. It could never happen at the pumps, of course, BUT IT HAS EXISTED FOR YEARS IN THE PARK HOME WORLD!! Worse still, it’s with the blessing of OFWAT, who still maintain the solution is simply to go to court, rather than them “upset” the industry by doing what their organisation says on the label, and wipe out once and for all this huge scandal.

In no other situation or lifestyle would you be so betrayed by an organisation that was supposedly set up to ensure you pay only for what you and your family have used. A classic case of gross inequality and discrimination on the highest scale. But again, who cares? Its like water off a duck’s back for those in power.

Compiled for PHRAA by Colin Packman President. Published February 2008.