Story perspectives

Benefit families exempt from hosepipe ban, MPs slam policy

7/14/2026

Summary

Story summary

Families on Department for Work and Pensions benefits can legally ignore the hosepipe ban because they are on the WaterSure tariff.
Southern Water and Affinity Water say the WaterSure tariff supports essential needs and advise users to conserve water despite the exemption.
Reform MP Suella Braverman called the exemption ridiculous.
Conservative MP Kevin Hollinrake said it is unreasonable that welfare claimants receive reduced water bills while others face the ban.

1 of 1

Story summary

Families on Department for Work and Pensions benefits can legally ignore the hosepipe ban because they are on the WaterSure tariff.
Southern Water and Affinity Water say the WaterSure tariff supports essential needs and advise users to conserve water despite the exemption.
Reform MP Suella Braverman called the exemption ridiculous.
Conservative MP Kevin Hollinrake said it is unreasonable that welfare claimants receive reduced water bills while others face the ban.