MEMBERS of St Helens Council's Housing and Environmental Services Committee have overwhelmingly opposed the new 'poverty trap' water devices currently being installed in the area.

The new devices from United Utilities are aimed at those with poor payment records. But councillors say they are hitting the most vulnerable members of society, those on benefit and low incomes with young families.

The committee said it was concerned that many people were opting to 'pay on the drip' for the new service without realising the severe implications of imminent water cut-offs.

Major concern was also voiced over the public health issue posed by the devices which use rechargeable plastic cards which, when not renewed, leads to 'self disconnection' - supplies are cut off.

Although backed by water consumer watchdog OFWAT, the devices have been attacked by a large number of authorities and council leader Dave Watts revealed that St Helens is adding its lobbying voice to back the legal challenge to ban the devices.

Chair of the Housing and Environmental Services Committee, Councillor Richard Ward said: "Vulnerable people are specifically being targeted with this system which is an absolute disgrace, especially when you consider the profits being made by the water industry for a service which, to say the least, often leaves a lot to be desired.

"We suggest that United Utilities get their own house in order and save water by plugging their own leaks - a third of all water supplies is lost in our region."

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.