Water bills to be focus of probe

The Ombudsman is to investigate reports of mass overcharging for water following media reports and complaints to her office.

Alice Tai Yuen-ying said she would look into the Water Supplies Department's procedures for handling complaints, as well as the grounds for such complaints.

The investigation will look into the criteria under which water charges are waived or written off, how disputes are settled, and what follow-up action, such as remedial measures, is taken.

The Ombudsman said the complaints might indicate systematic problems in procedures for issuing bills and handling complaints. 'This may also reflect a lack of public awareness of the rights and responsibilities of registered users,' Ms Tai said.