The industry has been cleaning up its act

This year, average domestic bills rose by 16.9% in the north of Scotland, 18.9% in the east of Scotland and 19.4% in the west of Scotland.

That compared with last year's increases of more than 40% in the north, 25% in the east and 18% in the west.

The increases were met with dismay by the Citizens Advice Bureau which said that families on benefit would struggle to pay.

The introduction of a single Scottish water authority is designed to equalise charges across the country.

While welcoming this reform, the Scottish Consumer Council said it reinforces the importance of strong consumer representatives for the sector.

It has voiced strong objections to the restricted role for the consumer in the bill.

Public ombudsman

It has called for an independent statutory body to fight for the interests of domestic users.

It wants this to be modelled on the councils which monitor gas, electricity and other public utilities.

It says that there is no justification for a weaker voice for the consumer in this industry, where it would improve standards and increase its efficiency.