Press statement - End to Rain Tax storm
We’re delighted The Government has announced today it is going to intervene to stop Ofwat’s rain tax and introduce a sensible social water charging regime. This announcement today will be welcomed by all community groups across England and Wales who have been frustrated by Ofwat’s failure to understand the damage and financial hardship their policies were causing to the clubs and groups that we The Scout Association, The Football Association, Lawn Tennis Association, the England and Wales Cricket Board, the Rugby Football Union and the Church of England represent.
We are therefore delighted that the Government has worked with us collectively to resolve this matter and we will be seeking assurances from all of the main political parties for wide ranging cross party support to make sure these measures become law in the Floods and Water Bill to protect community and voluntary groups which are the life blood of many communities.
Eighteen-year-old Scout Leader Nancy Ibrahim said: 'It’s great news to find out that the Minister has kept his promise to Scouting to stop the rain tax. We were really worried about where we were going to find the money to pay these charges and the cuts this would mean for our activities as a result.'
Chris Lilley, Treasurer of Penrith Rugby Club said: 'We fully welcome the news that DEFRA have recognised the contribution that sports clubs make to both their local communities and the health of all participants in sporting activities through this announcement which will remove one of the main financial concerns that we have.'
General Synod Member Martin Dales said: 'With over 16,000 places of worship, Church of England parishes and cathedrals were facing an annual bill of several million pounds. Today's announcement is very good news for them. We look forward to the early implementation of what has been promised.'
ENDS
Stella Creasy, Head of Public Affairs and Campaigns for The Scout Association is available for comment and interview.To set up interviews please email Simon Carter or call him on 0788 913 0812.