Why are the general public going to be charged more for the water rates?

Well, from what I know the UK water is "owned" by company's in the Netherlands and France. They have generally neglected their responsibility providing the service the UK public is paying for... I think the media coverage during this flood, have put focus on the many flaws this have caused over the years. I think the UK people should look into how much money these company's have saved on not keeping your water supplies, pipelines etc in tip top shape, and demand the public doesn't get stuck with the entire bill.