Water companies trust hits a new low as worries over bills deepen

Water companies are failing to win back customers’ trust amid deepening concerns over the fairness and affordability of water bills, a new report has revealed. Trust in water companies across England and Wales has reached a new low, according to the Consumer Council for Water’s (CCW) annual Water Matters report, which has been tracking household…

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Households cut back on spending

Households reduced spending in April, marking the first annual decline in card spending since late 2024. Barclays reported a 0.1% fall overall, with travel spending dropping 5.7% as consumers became increasingly cautious. Fuel spending rose sharply due to higher oil prices and concerns linked to Middle East tensions. The data showed that consumer card spending…

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King’s Speech: Small businesses welcome late payment announcement

Small businesses have welcomed new legislation aimed at curbing late payments, calling it a historic moment. The King’s Speech introduced measures that empower the Small Business Commissioner to investigate and fine firms that consistently delay payments. The Late Payments Bill enforces a maximum payment term of 60 days and mandates interest for late payments at…

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